Dussehra 2026: Date, Pooja Timings & Auspicious Muhurat Guide

Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is celebrated in different ways across India. Many communities mark Rama’s victory over Ravana through Ramlila performances and effigy burnings; the day is also associated with Durga’s victory over Mahishasura. Observances and ritual timings differ by region and tradition.

When is Dussehra in 2026?

Dussehra is listed for Tuesday, 20 October 2026 in many Indian festival calendars. The observance is associated with the Dashami tithi of the bright fortnight of Ashwin. Check a Panchang for your city and tradition before planning a timed ritual.

Why is Dussehra celebrated?

In traditions associated with the Ramayana, Dussehra commemorates Rama’s victory over Ravana. In traditions centered on Durga, Vijayadashami celebrates her victory over Mahishasura and follows the days of Durga Puja. Ramlila, processions, idol immersion and worship of tools or instruments are among the many regional customs. Some people regard the day as auspicious for new beginnings, though customs vary.

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Dussehra 2026 muhurat and pooja timings: New Delhi

The following India Standard Time (IST) figures are transcribed from a New Delhi timing guide supplied for this article. Its screenshot attributes the figures to Drik Panchang, but does not include a direct link to the dated city-specific listing; we have not independently verified these times. Please confirm them against a New Delhi Panchang or your temple before scheduling a ritual.

Important: The supplied guide places the start of Dashami at 12:50 PM on 20 October, after the start of its Aparahna window. That overlap needs confirmation from a dated city-specific Panchang before using these figures for a Dashami-dependent ritual. The guide also lists Shravana nakshatra ending at 6:02 PM on 20 October. Ravana Dahan is often held around dusk, but consult the schedule of your local celebration rather than assuming a single citywide time.

How Dussehra is observed

• Ramlila and Ravana Dahan: In many North Indian communities, performances culminate in the burning of Ravana effigies.
• Durga idol immersion: In parts of eastern India, Vijayadashami marks the conclusion of Durga Puja. Sindoor Khela is observed in some Bengali communities before immersion.
• Ayudha Puja: Tools, instruments and vehicles are honoured in some regional traditions; the day and manner of observance vary.
• Leaf exchange: In parts of Maharashtra, people exchange leaves of the apta tree as a symbolic gesture of gold. Apta and shami are different trees, and customs involving them should not be conflated.

Dussehra across India

• Delhi and other North Indian cities: Ramlila and Ravana Dahan are common public celebrations.
• West Bengal: Vijayadashami is associated with Durga Puja farewells and idol immersion.
• Mysuru: Mysuru Dasara is known for its procession and cultural celebrations.
• Parts of South India: Saraswati Puja and Ayudha Puja are observed according to local calendars and traditions.

For any gathering, follow local safety guidance. If you plan a pooja, ask your local temple or priest about the appropriate ritual and timing rather than relying on a general nationwide schedule.

Further reading

• Drik Panchang: select New Delhi and the festival date
• timeanddate.com: Dussehra in India

Note: Festival calendars and ritual timings can differ by city and tradition. Confirm the date and muhurat for your location before making plans.

Author

Written by Akshat Malik.