Dussehra 2026: Before Burning Ravana, Know These Important Rituals and Rules

Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 20, 2026. The festival marks the victory of good over evil and is associated with two important events in Hindu tradition: Lord Rama's victory over Ravana and Goddess Durga's victory over Mahishasura.

In North India, the day is closely associated with Ramlila performances and the burning of Ravana's effigy. However, the festival also involves several religious observances, including Shami tree worship, prayers to Goddess Aparajita and the worship of weapons and tools in some regions.

For devotees planning their celebrations, knowing the date, auspicious timings and traditional practices can help them understand the significance of Vijayadashami beyond the evening festivities.


Also Read: Dussehra 2026 Date: When Is Vijayadashami? Know Dashami Tithi, Vijay Muhurat, Puja Vidhi, Ravana Dahan and More

Dussehra 2026: Date and Vijay Muhurat

According to Drik Panchang, Dussehra will fall on October 20 this year. In Delhi, the Vijay Muhurat is scheduled from 1:59 pm to 2:45 pm.

The Dashami tithi begins at 12:50 pm on October 20 and ends at 2:11 pm on October 21. These timings are based on the Hindu calendar for Delhi, and local timings may vary.

Vijay Muhurat is traditionally considered an auspicious period for beginning important work and performing certain religious observances. Devotees who follow specific family traditions may consult their local panchang or priest for the appropriate timing.

It is important to distinguish between the afternoon muhurat used for certain pujas and the timing of Ravana Dahan. Public effigy-burning events are generally organised around sunset or in the evening, depending on local arrangements and religious practices.

Also Read: October 2026 Hindu Festival Calendar: Indira Ekadashi, Navratri, Dussehra, Sharad Purnima, Karwa Chauth Dates

Why Is Dussehra Celebrated?

Dussehra is associated with the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana, the king of Lanka, in the Ramayana. According to the epic, Rama defeated Ravana after a battle fought to rescue Sita.

Ravana's effigy is burnt in many parts of North India to symbolise the defeat of evil. Effigies of Meghnad and Kumbhakarna are also commonly burnt during public celebrations.

The festival has another important association in Hindu tradition. Vijayadashami marks Goddess Durga's victory over Mahishasura, the buffalo demon. This connection is especially significant in regions where the festival follows the conclusion of Durga Puja.

Although the stories and forms of celebration differ, the central religious message remains the triumph of good over evil.

Shami Puja: Why Is the Tree Worshipped?

One of the traditional observances associated with Vijayadashami is Shami Puja. The Shami tree holds religious significance in several Hindu traditions, and devotees offer prayers to it on this day.

The practice is also connected with the Mahabharata. According to a popular account, the Pandavas hid their weapons in a Shami tree during their period of exile. They later retrieved them, making the tree a symbol of strength, protection and the return of one's capabilities.

In some communities, people exchange Shami leaves as a symbolic gesture of goodwill and prosperity. In parts of Maharashtra, this custom is popularly associated with exchanging leaves as representations of gold.

The precise way the ritual is performed can differ between families and regions. The exchange of leaves is a cultural and religious tradition rather than a compulsory practice followed by every Hindu household.

Aparajita Puja and Worship of Weapons

Aparajita Puja is another traditional observance associated with Vijayadashami. Goddess Aparajita is worshipped as a form associated with victory, and the ritual is traditionally performed during the afternoon period considered suitable for Vijayadashami observances.

The day is also associated with Ayudha Puja, or the worship of weapons, tools and instruments. In several parts of India, people offer prayers to the equipment they use in their professions, including agricultural implements, machinery, vehicles and work tools.

For many devotees, this practice reflects gratitude for the objects and skills that support their livelihoods. Its form varies according to regional customs and occupational traditions.

Vijayadashami is also regarded by many people as an auspicious day to begin a new activity, undertake a project or make a fresh start.

What Happens Before Ravana Dahan?

In many North Indian towns and cities, the day is marked by Ramlila performances that narrate episodes from the Ramayana. These performances often conclude with scenes depicting Rama's victory over Ravana.

The burning of the effigy is generally the most anticipated part of the evening. Families gather at designated grounds to watch the event, while local organisers arrange performances and other festivities.

There is no single nationwide time for Ravana Dahan. The schedule depends on the local event, the organisers and the religious traditions being followed. Visitors should check announcements from their local Ramlila committee or municipal authorities before heading to the venue.

People attending public events should also follow crowd-control instructions, remain within designated viewing areas and keep a safe distance from the effigies and fireworks.

Dussehra Celebrations Differ Across India

Dussehra is not celebrated in exactly the same way throughout the country. In northern India, Ravana Dahan and Ramlila are prominent features of the festival. In West Bengal, Vijayadashami is associated with the conclusion of Durga Puja and the rituals surrounding the departure of Goddess Durga's idols.

In parts of southern India, Ayudha Puja and the worship of tools and instruments form an important part of the festive period. Mysuru, in Karnataka, is known for its Dasara celebrations, including the traditional royal procession.

These regional differences reflect the many cultural traditions associated with the same festival. The date may be shared, but the rituals and ways of observing the occasion can vary considerably.

What Should Devotees Keep in Mind?

There is no single set of rituals that every household must follow before Ravana Dahan. Devotees can observe the traditions followed by their families and communities, while consulting a local panchang for city-specific timings.

Those attending public celebrations should check the event schedule in advance and follow safety instructions issued by organisers.

Ultimately, Vijayadashami is a day of religious observance, community gatherings and reflection. The burning of Ravana's effigy remains its most visible symbol in many parts of India, but the festival's meaning also lies in the traditions observed before the flames rise and the celebrations begin.

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