New Delhi: Dussehra, the festival of victory of good over evil, has come with a question this time. Due to Dashami Tithi remaining for two days, people are confused whether Ravana Dahan will happen on 20th October or 21st October. Let us know the exact date, auspicious time, worship method and important things related to this festival. According to the Hindu calendar, Vijayadashami is celebrated on the tenth day of Shukla Paksha of Ashwin month. In the year 2026, Dashami Tithi will start on October 20 at 12:50 pm and end on October 21 at 2:11 pm.
Since the date lasts for two days, the date of the festival is different in different regions. Dussehra will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 20 in most parts of the country. Whereas in West Bengal, Vijayadashami will be held on 21st October, Wednesday.
Auspicious time and Ravana Dahan
Performing puja in Vijay Muhurta on Vijayadashami is considered especially fruitful. It is believed that auspicious work done at this time brings success. There is also a tradition of worshiping Lord Shri Ram, Maa Durga and weapons on this day. According to Delhi's Panchang, Vijay Muhurta on October 20 can last from 1:59 pm to 2:45 pm. However, this time varies depending on the city, so please check your local almanac. Pradosh period is considered auspicious for Ravana Dahan. This year, Ravana Dahan will take place in many areas of North India on the evening of 20 October. At many places, effigies of Kumbhakarna and Meghnad are also burnt along with Ravana. The exact time may vary depending on local sunset, tradition and venue, so check the time in your city before going to the event.
Puja method and Shami puja
On Vijayadashami, take bath in the morning, wear clean clothes and clean the place of worship. Then remember Lord Shri Ram and Mother Durga and worship. On this day there is also a tradition of worshiping Shami tree, Aparajita and weapons. Flowers, fruits, sweets and other materials can be offered to the Lord as per devotion. Those who worship weapons also worship their tools or work equipment. During this time it is important to take care of safety. Shami worship is prevalent in many areas. It is considered a symbol of auspiciousness, victory and prosperity. People light lamps in front of Shami and pray for happiness and prosperity. In some places, good wishes are also given to each other by giving Shami leaves, although traditions may differ from place to place.
Why is Dussehra celebrated
There are two main beliefs behind this. According to the first, in Tretayuga, Lord Shri Ram had killed King Ravana of Lanka and freed Mother Sita from her bondage. Ravana Dahan is burnt in the memory of that victory.
The second belief is related to Mother Durga and Mahishasura. According to the stories, Mother Durga killed Mahishasura and freed the gods and the world from his atrocities. Therefore, Vijayadashami is also considered a symbol of the victory of power and religion.
Vijayadashami is also considered important for starting new and auspicious works. Many people buy vehicles, start new work or worship business equipment on this day. At some places the tradition of weapon worship and Seemollanghan is also performed.