Dusshera 2026 Date: Is it October 20 or 21? Check the correct date, Vijayadashami tithi, puja muhurat and regional celebrations

Dussehra, also called Vijayadashami, is a Hindu festival symbolising the triumph of good over evil. Celebrated after the nine-day festival of Navratri, it marks Lord Rama’s victory over the demon king Ravana, as described in the Ramayana. This year, Dussehra will be celebrated on October 20, 2026.

Dusshera Date 2026

This year Dusshera will be celebrated on 20th October, 2026.

How Is Dussehra Celebrated In India?

Dussehra is celebrated in different ways across the country. In northern India, Ramlila performances depicting episodes from the Ramayana are organised in the days leading up to the festival. On Dussehra, effigies of Ravana, Meghnad and Kumbhakarna are traditionally burnt at public gatherings.


In West Bengal and other eastern regions, Vijayadashami marks the final day of Durga Puja. Devotees offer prayers to Goddess Durga, participate in rituals and bid farewell to the deity before the immersion of her idols.

In southern and western India, the day is also associated with worship, cultural programmes and the beginning of new ventures. Many families observe traditional rituals and seek blessings for prosperity and success.

Dussehra 2026: Important Dates

Durga Ashtami: Sunday, October 18, 2026

Maha Navami: Monday, October 19, 2026

Dussehra/Vijayadashami: Tuesday, October 20, 2026, in most parts of India

Significance Of Dussehra

Dussehra conveys the message that truth and righteousness ultimately prevail over evil. The festival encourages people to follow the path of honesty, courage and justice while overcoming negative tendencies.

For many devotees, the occasion is also considered auspicious for starting new activities, worshipping tools and instruments, and seeking blessings for personal and professional growth. The customs may vary across regions, but the central message of the festival remains the same: good triumphs over evil.