About Dussehra (Vijayadashami)
Celebrates the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana and Goddess Durga's triumph over Mahishasura. The quintessential symbol of dharma's victory over adharma.
Significance
Vijayadashami (Victory Tenth) closes the nine-day Navratri. In North India, Ramlila dramas culminate with the burning of the effigies of Ravana, Kumbhkarna and Meghnad. In Bengal, Durga Puja concludes with Durga's immersion (Vijaya Dashami).
Rituals & Observances
- ✦Burning of 50–100 ft Ravana, Kumbhkarna and Meghnad effigies
- ✦Shami tree (Prosopis spicigera) worship — leaves distributed as gold
- ✦Ayudha Puja — worship of weapons, vehicles and tools
- ✦Ramlila processions with Ram, Sita, Lakshman and Hanuman
- ✦Sindur Khela in West Bengal (women apply sindoor to Durga)
- ✦Visiting Durga mandaps for final darshan
Rama Temples to Visit
View all →Frequently Asked Questions
When is Dussehra (Vijayadashami) in 2026?▾
Dussehra (Vijayadashami) 2026 falls on Saturday, 10 October 2026. Note that festival dates may vary by 1–2 days by region — verify with a local panchangam.
Why is Dussehra (Vijayadashami) celebrated?▾
Vijayadashami (Victory Tenth) closes the nine-day Navratri. In North India, Ramlila dramas culminate with the burning of the effigies of Ravana, Kumbhkarna and Meghnad. In Bengal, Durga Puja concludes with Durga's immersion (Vijaya Dashami).
What are the main rituals of Dussehra (Vijayadashami)?▾
Burning of 50–100 ft Ravana, Kumbhkarna and Meghnad effigies. Shami tree (Prosopis spicigera) worship — leaves distributed as gold. Ayudha Puja — worship of weapons, vehicles and tools.
Which temples are best to visit on Dussehra (Vijayadashami)?▾
The best temples to visit on Dussehra (Vijayadashami) are those dedicated to Rama and Durga. See the temple listings below for top-rated options near you.
Upcoming Festivals
Festival dates are approximate and based on the Hindu lunisolar calendar. Actual dates may vary by 1–2 days by region. Verify with a local panchangam.