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A simple guide to the date, meaning and traditions of Vijayadashami
Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is one of the most widely celebrated Hindu festivals in India. It marks the victory of good over evil and falls on the tenth day (Dashami) of the bright half of the Hindu month of Ashwin, immediately after the nine nights of Navratri. In 2026, it is observed on Tuesday, October 20.
The name has two parts: Dasha (ten) and hara (defeat), commonly linked to Rama's victory over the ten-headed Ravana, while Vijaya means victory.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Festival | Dussehra / Vijayadashami |
| Date in 2026 | Tuesday, October 20 |
| Tithi | Dashami of Ashwin Shukla Paksha |
| Preceded by | Nine nights of Navratri (Maha Navami falls the day before) |
| Main themes | Victory of good over evil, worship of Goddess Durga and Lord Rama |
| Common observances | Ravan Dahan, Shastra Puja, Ramlila endings, Durga idol immersion |
Exact puja timings and the best muhurat vary by city, so families should check a local panchang or the guidance of their temple or priest.
Different regions connect the festival to different stories, which is why it has several layers of meaning:
Despite the different stories, the message is the same: truth, courage and righteousness prevail over arrogance and wrongdoing.
Many people read Ravana's ten heads as symbols of ten human flaws that a person should overcome. Commonly cited ones include lust, anger, greed, attachment, pride, jealousy, selfishness, hatred, injustice and cruelty. Burning Ravana's effigy therefore also serves as a personal reminder to let go of these tendencies.
Navratri lasts nine nights and is devoted to the nine forms of Goddess Durga. Dussehra is the tenth day and concludes the celebrations. In 2026, Navratri began on October 11 and Dussehra falls on October 20.
Is Dussehra the same as Vijayadashami?
Yes. They are two names for the same festival.
Why is Dussehra on a different date every year?
It follows the Hindu lunar calendar, so the Gregorian date changes each year.
Is Dussehra a public holiday in India?
It is a gazetted holiday across India, though local arrangements can vary.
Do all regions burn Ravana?
No. Some regions emphasise Goddess Durga and have different customs.
The date and background follow widely published festival calendars and standard accounts of the Ramayana and Durga traditions. Always confirm puja times locally.
