When is Dussehra 2026?
Dussehra 2026 (Vijayadashami) falls on Tuesday, 20 October 2026, on Ashwin Shukla Dashami — the tenth day, immediately after the nine nights of Navratri. Ravana effigies are set alight at dusk across North India.
Why is Dussehra celebrated?
Dussehra unites two great legends of victory. In the North it marks Lord Rama's defeat of the ten-headed demon king Ravana, the climax of Ramlila performances, ending with the burning of towering effigies of Ravana, Meghnad and Kumbhakarna. In the East and among Shakta traditions it celebrates Goddess Durga's slaying of Mahishasura. Either way, the message is the same — the triumph of dharma over adharma.
Rituals & regional celebrations
- Ravana Dahan — the burning of effigies at Ramlila grounds after dusk.
- Shastra & Aparajita Puja — worship of weapons, tools and the goddess Aparajita during Vijaya Muhurat.
- Mysuru Dasara — Karnataka's royal, ten-day state festival with the Jamboo Savari elephant procession.
- Kullu Dussehra — Himachal's week-long festival that begins when others end.
- Vidyarambham & new beginnings — an auspicious day to start learning, business or buy vehicles and gold.
Dussehra in the festival calendar
Dussehra closes Navratri 2026 and Durga Puja 2026, and falls exactly 20 days before Diwali 2026. See every tithi on the Hindi Panchang 2026 or the full 2026 Festivals hub.
Frequently asked questions
When is Dussehra 2026?
Dussehra 2026 (Vijayadashami) falls on Tuesday, 20 October 2026, the tenth day after Navratri, with Ravana Dahan held in the evening.
Why is Dussehra celebrated?
It marks Lord Rama's victory over Ravana and Goddess Durga's victory over Mahishasura — the triumph of good over evil. Effigies of Ravana are burnt to symbolise this.
What is Vijaya Muhurat?
Vijaya Muhurat is the most auspicious window on Vijayadashami, ideal for starting ventures, buying vehicles or gold, and Shastra Puja.