Dussehra 2026: Date, History, Significance and Important Facts

Dussehra or Vijayadashami to be celebrated on Tuesday, 20 October 2026, throughout most parts of India. The festival stands for the triumph of good over evil, and is marked by the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana and the triumph of Goddess Durga over Mahishasura. The festival celebrations include Ravana Dahan, performances of Ramlila, puja, and regional practices. Vijay Muhurat differs from city to city, but Dashami Tithi continues till 21 October as per the timings of New Delhi Panchang for the festival.

What will be the Timing for Ravana Dahan in 2026?

Ravana Dahan occurs following sunset on the day of Dussehra, and public celebration includes burning of effigies of Ravana, Meghnad, and Kumbhakarna along with Ramlila enactments from the story of Ramayana.

According to estimates in New Delhi, the sun will set on 20 October at around 5:47 PM. It does not mean that 5:47 PM is a confirmed time for Ravana Dahan.

History of Dussehra

There are two principal schools of Hinduism from which the significance of Dussehra is derived.

Victory of Lord Rama over Ravana

As per Ramayana, Ravana, the king of Lanka, had abducted the wife of Lord Rama, namely Sita. Lord Rama fought against Ravana with the help of his brother Lakshmana, Hanuman and Vanara Army to rescue Sita.

The victory over Ravana symbolizes the victory of righteousness over arrogance, evil and injustice.

Burning of Ravana’s effigy signifies the victory. Ramlilas are conducted throughout the northern part of India, which describe the events that take place before the battle of Rama and conclude with Ravana Dahan.

Victory of Goddess Durga over Mahishasura

From the Shakta school, the Vijayadashami commemorates the triumph of Goddess Durga over Mahishasura. This festival brings an end to the Durga Puja festival celebrated in eastern parts of India, especially in West Bengal.

The ritual associated with Durga Puja Vijayadashami consists of prayers and farewell ceremony of the Goddess known as Durga Visarjan.

In certain places, these rituals will continue till 21 October 2026 owing to local traditions and Dashami Tithi.

Dussehra: Spiritual and Cultural Value

Dussehra is a festival which signifies triumph of good over evil, of truth over lies and of justice over injustice. The customs of Dussehra vary from region to region in India due to its religious and cultural diversity.

• In northern and central India, the custom of performing Ramlila and burning of Ravana are important.
• In eastern India, the custom of Vijayadashami marks the end of Durga Puja and is dedicated to the victory of Goddess Durga over Mahishasura.
• In western India, the customs of Shami Puja and worship of weapons are celebrated in various communities.
• In southern India, Ayudha Puja and other customs relating to knowledge, art and crafts are performed as a part of larger Dussehra celebrations.

The festival also provides an opportunity for people to think about attributes like bravery, humility, self-control and mercy.

Important Rituals Associated With Vijayadashami

Vijay Muhurat: An auspicious time linked with religious practices or activities related to victory.

Shami Puja: Religious ritual performed in honor of the Shami tree and is generally considered to be auspicious and victorious.

Aparajita Puja: Religious worship performed in honor of Aparajita who is a goddess of victory and protection.

Shastra or Ayudha Puja: Ritual worship of arms, implements or equipment, signifying veneration for the means of performing one’s work.

Ravana Dahan: Burning of the idol of Ravana as a mark of celebration of the victory of Lord Rama.

Durga Visarjan: Ceremonial immersion of the idol of Durga at the end of the Durga Puja celebrations.