Dussehra, known as Vijayadashami, is set to be observed on Tuesday, October 20, 2026. This festival commemorates the triumph of virtue over vice, highlighting Lord Rama’s defeat of Ravana and Goddess Durga’s victory over Mahishasura.
As per Drik Panchang, the Dashami Tithi commences at 12:50 PM on October 20 and concludes at 2:11 PM on October 21, 2026.
Dussehra 2026 Schedule
- Dussehra/Vijayadashami: Tuesday, October 20, 2026
- Dashami Tithi Begins: 12:50 PM on October 20
- Dashami Tithi Ends: 2:11 PM on October 21
Vijay Muhurat Information
The Vijay Muhurat, a significant time for conducting rituals on Dussehra, varies by location:
- New Delhi: 1:59 PM to 2:45 PM
- Mumbai: 2:19 PM to 3:06 PM
- Kolkata: 1:17 PM to 2:03 PM
In Bengal, Bijoya Dashami will be celebrated on October 21, following the local Durga Puja calendar. The Aparahna Puja in Kolkata is scheduled from 12:30 PM to 2:49 PM on that day.
Regional Observance Differences
The variation in Dussehra dates across regions is mainly due to local observances and panchang calculations. While most of India will celebrate on October 20, Bengal will observe Bijoya Dashami a day later.
Significance of Dussehra
Dussehra holds deep religious and cultural significance throughout India:
- Lord Rama’s Victory: The festival represents Rama’s conquest over Ravana, symbolizing the victory of righteousness (dharma) over evil (adharma). This is often marked by the burning of effigies of Ravana and his allies.
- Goddess Durga’s Triumph: It also celebrates Goddess Durga’s victory over the buffalo demon Mahishasura, particularly in eastern India where it signifies the end of Durga Puja.
Key Rituals and Traditions
Dussehra traditions vary regionally, yet several customs are commonly practiced:
- Ravana Dahan: In many northern cities, effigies of Ravana are burnt during public events, symbolizing the destruction of evil.
- Shastra Puja and Ayudha Puja: This ritual involves the worship of tools and instruments important to one’s profession, emphasizing their respectful use.
- Shami Puja: The Shami tree is revered in various traditions, with worship on Vijayadashami signifying victory.
- Apta Leaf Exchange: In Maharashtra and other areas, Apta leaves are shared as symbols of prosperity and goodwill.
- Mysuru Dasara: Karnataka’s Mysuru Dasara is a prominent celebration known for its royal heritage and cultural festivities.
- Durga Visarjan and Sindoor Khela: In Bengal, this day marks the farewell to Goddess Durga, accompanied by rituals like Sindoor Khela among married women.
Dussehra Puja Essentials
A typical Dussehra puja setup may include:
- Kumkum or roli
- Haldi
- Chandan
- Akshat (unbroken rice)
- Clean water or Ganga Jal
- Flowers
- Shami or Apta leaves (based on tradition)
- Sacred red thread (Mouli)
- Oil or ghee diya
- Dhoop or incense
- Camphor
- Puja bell
- Aarti plate
- Seasonal fruits
- Coconut
- Traditional sweets (ladoos, halwa, kheer)
- Other regional prasad
Bijoya Dashami in Kolkata
For Kolkata, Bijoya Dashami will take place on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, with the Aparahna Puja scheduled between 12:30 PM and 2:49 PM.
Notably, the Dashami Tithi will start at 12:50 PM on October 20 and end at 2:11 PM on October 21.
Rituals in Kolkata
- Darpan Bisarjan: This ritual symbolizes the Goddess’s departure.
- Sindoor Khela: In this practice, married women apply sindoor to the Goddess and to each other in a celebratory farewell.
- Durga Visarjan: The clay idols of deities are taken for immersion in water bodies, a significant aspect of the final day of Durga Puja.
Overall Significance of Dussehra 2026
Dussehra transcends individual narratives, embodying the larger theme of dharma’s ultimate victory over adharma. It is a day filled with prayer, renewal, and auspicious beginnings, marked by public festivities and family gatherings. Many view Vijayadashami as an opportune moment for new ventures, worshipping work tools, or embarking on educational pursuits, with customs varying by community.
