Dussehra · दशहरा
Dussehra or Vijayadashami, the tenth day of the bright fortnight of Ashwin, celebrates the victory of Ram over Ravana and of Durga over Mahishasura: the victory of good over evil.
Dates
Dates and times are for New Delhi (Asia/Kolkata). They can differ in other places, especially outside India, and between traditions.
How the date is determined
Ashwin Shukla Dashami prevailing in the afternoon (aparahna).
Effigies of Ravana, Meghnad and Kumbhakarna are burned after the Ramlila; weapons and tools are worshipped (Ayudha Puja); people exchange shami leaves and begin new undertakings.
Regional and tradition differences
In Bengal it marks the immersion of Durga images (Bijoya Dashami); Mysuru and Kullu hold famous Dasara celebrations.
What to recite
Sources
- Vijayadashami, Wikipedia (2026)
Change log
- : Published.