Dussehra Vijayadashami 2026 – Celebrating the Victory of Good Over Evil

Full Date

20 October 2026 Afternoon 1:00 PM – 20 October 2026 Afternoon 2:00 PM

Muhurat Timings in India

• Shami Puja

  Shami Puja on 20 October 2026 involves worshipping shami tree branches to symbolize victory and prosperity.

  20 October 2026 Morning 9:00 AM – 20 October 2026 Evening 5:00 PM

• Ramlila Performances

  Ramayana episodes are dramatized in community Ramlilas leading up to Vijayadashami, ending with Rama’s victory over Ravana.

  10 October 2026 Evening 6:00 PM – 20 October 2026 Night 10:00 PM

• Effigy Burning and Durga Visarjan

  The afternoon of Vijayadashami features grand effigy burning of Ravana and ceremonial immersion of Durga idols in water.

  20 October 2026 Afternoon 2:00 PM – 20 October 2026 Evening 6:00 PM

Introduction

Vijayadashami, also known as Dussehra or Dasara, is a major Hindu festival celebrating the defeat of evil forces by divine powers. It honors Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana and Goddess Durga’s triumph over Mahishasura, signifying the victory of good over evil and the start of new beginnings.

Other Names

Dussehra, Dasara, Vijaya Dashami

Pooja Vidhi

• Collect Shami tree twigs early morning and prepare for Shami Puja.
• Decorate venues for Ramlila and invite community members.
• Prepare tools and instruments for Ayudha Puja with clean cloth and flowers.
• Arrange for effigy processions and fireworks in the evening.
• Offer prayers during burning of effigies and farewell to Goddess Durga.

Rituals

• Perform Shami Puja by worshipping Shami tree branches, symbolizing generosity and victory.
• Attend Ramlila performances reenacting Ramayana episodes.
• Celebrate Ayudha Puja by venerating tools, vehicles, and instruments.
• Participate in grand processions with effigies of Ravana, Kumbhakarna, and Meghanada.
• Witness burning of Ravana’s effigy and Durga Visarjan in water bodies.

Regional Highlights

• Northern India celebrates with massive Ramlila enactments and Ravana Dahan in public squares.
• Southern states observe Ayudha Puja and cultural programs emphasizing warfare tools and arts.
• Eastern India combines Vijayadashami with concluding rituals of Durga Puja, especially in Bengal.
• Western states like Maharashtra perform Shami Puja and organize folk dances.

History

The festival’s legend includes Lord Rama’s conquest of Lanka and Goddess Durga’s battle with demon Mahishasura. These stories are emblematic of the victory of righteousness, truth, and divine justice. Vijayadashami is also associated with the removal of ten human vices, marking a day of spiritual cleansing and renewal.

Additional Information

• Vijayadashami symbolizes the victory of righteousness and moral values.
• The festival promotes cultural heritage, spirituality, and social harmony.
• Dussehra marks the culmination of the nine-day Navratri festival across India.