Ashwin Shukla Dashami
Dussehra
Also known as Vijayadashami
Dussehra, or Vijayadashami, celebrates two great victories on the tenth day of bright Ashwin: Rama’s slaying of the demon-king Ravana, and Durga’s of Mahishasura. It crowns the Navratri season.
2026
Tuesday, 20 October 2026
2027
Saturday, 9 October 2027
The day at a glance
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Significance
It is the festival of the triumph of good over evil and of righteousness restored. As a “victory day” (Vijaya) it is one of the year’s most auspicious for new beginnings and ventures.
How Dussehra is observed
Towering effigies of Ravana, Kumbhakarna and Meghnad are burned at dusk after Ramlila enactments; in Bengal it is Vijayadashami, the immersion of Durga. Mysuru’s royal Dasara procession is famed.
FAQ
What does Dussehra celebrate?
Rama’s victory over Ravana and Durga’s over Mahishasura: good triumphing over evil.
Why are effigies burned?
The burning of Ravana’s effigy enacts the destruction of evil and arrogance, the climax of the Ramlila.
Why is Vijayadashami auspicious for new starts?
As a “day of victory”, it is traditionally chosen to begin learning, ventures and journeys.
Around the same season
Plan around Dussehra
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