Vijayadashami 2026 Date and Puja Timings: There is some confusion this year regarding the date of Vijayadashami, also known as Dussehra. Some sources suggest celebrating it on October 20, while others point to October 21. This discrepancy arises from differences in regional almanacs (panchang) and worship traditions. According to the almanac followed in New Delhi, the main festival of Vijayadashami in 2026 will be observed on Tuesday, October 20. Meanwhile, in West Bengal, Odisha, and several other parts of Eastern India, Vijayadashami will be celebrated on Wednesday, October 21, in accordance with Durga Puja traditions.

Dussehra: October 20 or 21?
According to the Hindu calendar, the festival of Vijayadashami falls on the tenth day (tithi) of the bright fortnight (shukla paksha) of the month of Ashvin. It symbolizes the victory of truth over falsehood and righteousness (dharma) over unrighteousness (adharma).

Beginning of Dashami Tithi: 12:50 PM on October 20
Conclusion of Dashami Tithi: 2:11 PM on October 21
Shravana Nakshatra: Begins at 3:38 PM on October 19 and continues until 6:02 PM on October 20.

In North India, the festival of Vijayadashami (Dussehra) will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 20; however, since the ritual farewell (visarjan) of the Goddess is traditionally not performed on a Tuesday, this will take place on Wednesday, October 21.

Vijayadashami in Eastern India on October 21
Navami Tithi will continue until 12:50 PM on October 20. Consequently, Navami Tithi will be prevalent at sunrise on October 20, whereas Dashami Tithi will be prevalent at sunrise on October 21. In Bengal and several regions of Eastern India, Vijaya Dashami will be celebrated on October 21, based on the *tithi* (lunar day) prevailing at sunrise and local traditions associated with Durga Puja.

Vijaya Dashami in North India on October 20
Conversely, in most parts of North, West, and Central India, the date for Vijaya Dashami is determined by the presence of the *Dashami tithi* during the *aparahna* (afternoon) period. Since the *Dashami tithi* will be present during the afternoon on October 20, Dussehra will primarily be celebrated on this day.

Auspicous Timings (*Muhuruts*) for Dussehra 2026 Puja
For New Delhi, the key *muhuruts* for Vijaya Dashami puja on October 20 are as follows:

*Vijaya Muhurut*: From 1:59 PM to 2:45 PM
*Aparahna Puja Muhurut*: From approximately 1:14 PM to 3:30 PM
The *Vijaya Muhurut* holds special significance for performing *puja* and auspicious activities on the day of Vijaya Dashami.

Auspicious Timings for *Ayudha Puja* 2026
*Vijaya Muhurut* (the ideal time for *puja*): From 1:59 PM to 2:45 PM
Auspicious time for the worship of Goddess Aparajita: From 1:14 PM to 3:30 PM

When will *Ravan Dahan* take place on Dussehra 2026?
On the occasion of Dussehra, the burning of the effigies of Ravana, Kumbhakarna, and Meghnada takes place during the *Pradosh Kaal* (the period around sunset).
The best time for *Ravan Dahan* – October 20, from 5:47 PM to 6:12 PM.
*Pradosh Kaal* – On October 20, this period will span from 5:47 PM to 8:17 PM.

Why is *Shastra Puja* (worship of weapons) performed on Vijaya Dashami?
The festival of Vijaya Dashami symbolizes the victory of good over evil. According to religious beliefs, it was on this day that Lord Rama slew Ravana. This festival is also associated with Goddess Durga’s victory over the demon Mahishasura. There is a tradition of performing *Shastra Puja* (worship of weapons/tools) and *Aparajita Puja* on this day. Many families worship their tools, books, vehicles, and items related to their work or profession. In some regions, *Shami* or *Apta* leaves are exchanged as a symbol of good wishes and prosperity. Many families also choose this day to initiate children into studies, writing, music, or the commencement of any new endeavor.

Things to keep in mind before celebrating Dussehra:
If your family follows the *Panchang* (calendar) tradition of North or West India, you may plan your *Vijayadashami* rituals for October 20th. Conversely, families who follow the Bengali *Durga Puja* tradition may observe *Vijayadashami* on October 21st. Ensure that items required for the rituals—such as flowers, *diyas* (lamps), sweets, clean clothing, and materials for *Shastra Puja*—are kept ready in advance.

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