Dussehra 2026: Date, Vijay Muhurat & Puja Vidhi

Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, falls on Tuesday, 20 October 2026.

Timings for New Delhi, IST (UTC+05:30):

• Vijay Muhurat: 1:59 PM to 2:45 PM on 20 October 2026
• Dashami tithi: 12:50 PM on 20 October to 2:11 PM on 21 October 2026

In Bengal, Vijayadashami, with the concluding rituals of Durga Puja and the farewell to Goddess Durga, is observed on Wednesday, 21 October 2026.

Source: Drik Panchang, 2026 Vijayadashami dates and timings calculated for New Delhi. These timings are location-specific, and regional observances can differ; check the local Panchang for the city where the rituals will take place.

Dussehra, or Vijayadashami, is a major Hindu festival that symbolises the victory of good over evil. It is associated with Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana and, in another important tradition, Goddess Durga’s victory over Mahishasura. The festival marks the culmination of Navratri and is observed with prayers, cultural celebrations and regional rituals.

The word Vijayadashami is associated with victory on the tenth lunar day. For devotees, the festival is a reminder that truth, courage and dharma can overcome arrogance and injustice. The stories and customs associated with the day vary by region, but the central message of renewal and righteous action is widely shared.

1. Clean the worship area: Prepare a clean space and arrange the items needed for your family’s puja.
2. Offer prayers: Pray to Lord Rama, Goddess Durga or the deity honoured in your tradition.
3. Perform Aparajita Puja: Some traditions worship Goddess Aparajita during the prescribed afternoon period.
4. Perform Shami Puja: Where customary, worship the Shami tree or its leaves as a symbol of auspiciousness and victory.
5. Observe Vijay Muhurat: If planning a new beginning or ritual linked to this muhurat, confirm the timing for your city.
6. Join community traditions: Attend Ramlila, Ravana Dahan or local Vijayadashami events where available and safe.

Vijay Muhurat is an auspicious period associated with Vijayadashami. In New Delhi, IST (UTC+05:30), it falls from 1:59 PM to 2:45 PM on 20 October 2026. Muhurat timings vary by location, so use a city-specific Panchang rather than applying the Delhi timing everywhere.

• Ravana Dahan: In many parts of North India, effigies of Ravana, Kumbhakarna and Meghnad are burned as a symbol of the victory of good over evil.
• Durga Vijayadashami: In Bengal and other eastern regions, the day is connected with the concluding rituals of Durga Puja and the farewell to Goddess Durga. In 2026, Bengal observes it on Wednesday, 21 October.
• Shami Puja and Aparajita Puja: These rituals are observed in some communities as symbols of victory and auspicious beginnings.
• Ayudha Puja: In some southern and regional traditions, tools, instruments, books or vehicles are honoured as part of the festival period.

Dussehra is a celebration of courage, truth and the triumph of dharma. Whether observed through Rama-related traditions, Durga Puja, Shami Puja or community festivities, the day encourages people to choose integrity and begin new efforts with confidence.

For accurate festival dates and muhurat details, consult the VedJyotix Panchang and festival calendar.

Read Durga Ashtami 2026 and Maha Navami 2026, or see the Dussehra 2026 festival guide.