Dussehra 2026 Date: October 20 or 21? Check the Correct Date, Shubh Muhurat and Ravan Dahan Timing

Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is one of the most important Hindu festivals celebrated across India. The festival marks the victory of good over evil and reminds us that truth and righteousness always win in the end. On this day, people remember Lord Shri Ram's victory over Ravana and Goddess Durga's victory over the demon Mahishasura.

One of the biggest highlights of Dussehra is Ravan Dahan, when large effigies of Ravana, Kumbhkaran and Meghnad are burnt at public events. Families come together to watch these celebrations, visit temples and offer prayers.

However, there is a question that many people are asking this year: Will Dussehra 2026 be celebrated on October 20 or October 21? Since the Dashami Tithi continues across two calendar days, people may find it confusing to decide the correct date.

If you are also planning your Dussehra celebrations, here is everything you need to know about the festival's date, auspicious timings, Ravan Dahan, puja rituals and religious significance.

Dussehra 2026: Is It on October 20 or October 21?

According to the Hindu calendar, Dussehra is celebrated on the tenth day, known as Dashami Tithi, of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Ashwin. This day is also called Vijayadashami.

In 2026, the Dashami Tithi begins on October 20 at 12:50 PM and ends on October 21 at 2:11 PM, according to the timings provided in the referenced Panchang information.

Since the Tithi continues over two dates, the festival's observance may differ according to regional customs and traditional calendar calculations.

In most parts of North India, Dussehra is expected to be celebrated on Tuesday, October 20, 2026. In West Bengal, Vijayadashami will be observed on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, as part of the region's Durga Puja traditions.

It is important to remember that Hindu festivals are not always decided simply by looking at the calendar date. The relevant Tithi, its timing and regional religious customs can influence the date of observance.

If you are planning to visit a temple or attend a local celebration, check the festival schedule announced in your city.

Dussehra 2026 Shubh Muhurat: When Should You Perform Puja?

Vijayadashami is traditionally considered an auspicious day for worship, new beginnings and activities connected with success and progress.

One of the important timings associated with the festival is Vijay Muhurat. According to Hindu religious beliefs, this period is especially suitable for performing certain auspicious activities.

Based on the Delhi Panchang timings provided in the reference information, the Vijay Muhurat on October 20, 2026, is expected to be from 1:59 PM to 2:45 PM.

During this period, devotees may offer prayers to Lord Shri Ram and Goddess Durga. People who follow the tradition of Shastra Puja may also worship their tools, weapons or work-related equipment.

However, the exact muhurat can vary depending on the city and the Panchang being followed. Therefore, it is best to confirm the timing with a local Panchang or temple before planning your puja.

Ravan Dahan 2026: When Will Ravana's Effigy Be Burnt?

Ravan Dahan is one of the most recognisable traditions associated with Dussehra, especially in North India. Every year, large effigies of Ravana are set up at public grounds, where people gather to watch them being burnt.

The ritual symbolises Lord Shri Ram's victory over Ravana and the triumph of good over evil. In many places, effigies of Kumbhkaran and Meghnad are also burnt as part of the celebrations.

According to traditional beliefs, Ravan Dahan is generally performed during the evening, around the Pradosh Kaal period. This is the time around sunset that holds religious significance in Hindu traditions.

In many parts of North India, Ravan Dahan is expected to take place on the evening of October 20, 2026.

However, there is no single nationwide timing for the event. The exact schedule depends on the local sunset, religious customs and the arrangements made by the organisers.

If you want to attend a Ravan Dahan event with your family, check the timings announced by your local Ramlila committee or event organisers. Arriving early can also help you find a suitable place to watch the celebrations safely.

How to Perform Dussehra Puja at Home

Dussehra puja does not have to be complicated. Devotees can follow their family traditions and offer prayers with faith and devotion.

Here is a simple way to observe the festival at home.

1. Clean your home and puja area: Start the day by cleaning your home and preparing a neat space for worship. You can decorate the entrance with flowers or a traditional rangoli.

2. Take a bath and wear clean clothes: Many families begin the festival with a morning bath and wear fresh or traditional clothes.

3. Offer prayers to Lord Shri Ram and Goddess Durga: Place their pictures or idols in the puja area. Offer flowers, fruits, sweets and other items according to your family tradition.

4. Perform Shami Puja: If this tradition is followed in your family, worship the Shami plant and pray for courage, well-being and prosperity.

5. Perform Shastra Puja: Some people worship their tools, books, vehicles or work-related equipment on this day. This ritual expresses respect for the things that support their livelihood and daily work.

6. Pray for happiness and success: Conclude your puja by offering prayers for peace, good health and harmony in your family.

Remember that rituals can differ from one region and family to another. You can follow the customs that are meaningful to you.

Why Is the Shami Tree Worshipped on Dussehra?

The Shami tree has a special place in several Hindu traditions associated with Vijayadashami. It is traditionally connected with victory, courage and prosperity.

According to popular beliefs, the Shami tree is associated with stories from the Mahabharata involving the Pandavas and their hidden weapons. Because of these associations, worshipping the tree on Dussehra has become an important custom in several regions.

On this day, devotees may offer prayers near the Shami plant and light a diya, where appropriate and safe. In some parts of India, people also exchange Shami leaves as a gesture of goodwill and good wishes.

The exact customs vary from region to region, but the underlying idea is to welcome positive beginnings and pray for success in the coming year.

Why Do We Celebrate Dussehra?

There are two major religious stories associated with Dussehra.

The first is the story of Lord Shri Ram's victory over Ravana. According to the Ramayana, Ravana abducted Mata Sita and took her to Lanka. Lord Ram, with the help of Lakshman, Hanuman and his army, fought Ravana and defeated him. Dussehra commemorates this victory and the restoration of righteousness.

The second story is associated with Goddess Durga and Mahishasura. According to Hindu tradition, Mahishasura became powerful and troubled the gods. Goddess Durga fought him and eventually defeated him, restoring peace and balance.

These stories give Dussehra its deeper meaning. The festival reminds people to stand up against wrongdoing, make the right choices and have faith in the power of truth.

What Is the Significance of Vijayadashami?

Vijayadashami is traditionally considered a favourable day to begin new activities. Many people choose this occasion to purchase vehicles, start a business, begin a new project or worship the tools they use for work.

In some regions, people also perform Shastra Puja and observe the tradition of Seemollanghan, which symbolises crossing boundaries and moving towards new opportunities.

For young people, Dussehra can also be a reminder that success requires patience, courage and consistent effort. Just as the festival celebrates the victory of good over evil, it encourages us to overcome negative habits and work towards becoming better versions of ourselves.

Dussehra 2026: Final Takeaway

Dussehra 2026 will be observed on October 20 in many parts of India, while Vijayadashami celebrations in West Bengal are expected on October 21, following regional traditions.

The Vijay Muhurat for Delhi is expected to be from 1:59 PM to 2:45 PM on October 20, based on the Panchang timings referenced above. Ravan Dahan will generally take place in the evening, but local timings may differ.

Before making your plans, confirm the exact puja muhurat and Ravan Dahan schedule with a reliable local Panchang or event organiser.

Whether you celebrate by performing puja at home, visiting a temple or watching Ravan Dahan with your family, Dussehra is a time to remember an important message: goodness, truth and courage can help us overcome even the biggest challenges.