New Delhi, October 20, 2026: Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is being celebrated on Tuesday, October 20, marking the triumph of good over evil. The festival is associated with the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana and carries religious significance for Shastra Puja, prayers, charitable giving and Ravana Dahan.
According to the Panchang details provided for this report, the Vijayadashami tithi begins at 12:51 PM on October 20 and ends at 2:11 PM on October 21. The festival is being observed on October 20 based on the tithi calculation cited in the supplied information.
Dussehra 2026: Shastra Puja Muhurat
Shastra Puja, the traditional worship of weapons and instruments associated with strength and duty, is an important Vijayadashami observance. According to religious beliefs, the ritual symbolizes courage, discipline, protection and the pursuit of victory.
The supplied Panchang lists the following auspicious timings for October 20:
Vijay Muhurat: 1:59 PM to 2:45 PM
Afternoon Puja Muhurat: 1:14 PM to 3:30 PM
Devotees traditionally clean the objects to be worshipped, offer flowers and perform prayers according to family and regional customs.
Ravana Dahan 2026: When Will the Effigy Be Burned?
Ravana Dahan is one of the most widely recognized public traditions associated with Dussehra. Communities organize events featuring the burning of Ravana effigies to symbolize the victory of righteousness over wrongdoing.
According to the supplied Panchang details, Pradosh Kaal begins at 5:47 PM on October 20. Ravana Dahan events may take place after that, depending on local religious customs and the schedules announced by individual organizers.
There is no single nationwide Ravana Dahan time. People planning to attend celebrations should check the timing announced for their local venue.
Dussehra 2026: Choghadiya Timings
The supplied daytime Choghadiya schedule for October 20 is as follows:
| Choghadiya | Time |
|---|---|
| Amrit | 6:24 AM–7:49 AM |
| Kaal | 7:49 AM–9:15 AM |
| Shubh | 9:15 AM–10:40 AM |
| Rog | 10:40 AM–12:05 PM |
| Udveg | 12:05 PM–1:31 PM |
| Char | 1:31 PM–2:56 PM |
| Labh | 2:56 PM–4:22 PM |
| Amrit | 4:22 PM–5:47 PM |
These timings are reproduced from the information provided and should be checked against a location-specific Panchang before publication.
Why Is Vijayadashami Celebrated?
Vijayadashami represents the victory of good over evil and righteousness over injustice. In Hindu tradition, the festival is associated with Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana. In several regions, it also commemorates Goddess Durga’s victory over Mahishasura.
The festival is observed in different ways across India, including religious ceremonies, Shastra Puja, community gatherings and Ramlila performances culminating in Ravana Dahan.
What Should Devotees Keep in Mind?
People planning Shastra Puja should follow their family traditions and local religious guidance. Those attending Ravana Dahan events should check venue-specific schedules, traffic advisories and crowd-management arrangements before leaving home.
Bottom line: For Dussehra 2026, the supplied Panchang lists Vijay Muhurat from 1:59 PM to 2:45 PM and the beginning of Pradosh Kaal at 5:47 PM on October 20. Local timings and event schedules should be confirmed before publication or travel.
