Dussehra 2026 on 20 October: Vijay Muhurat timings by city and Ravan Dahan details
Vijayadashami falls on 20 October in most of India; here are the Dashami tithi timings, city-wise Vijay Muhurat and what to know about Ravan Dahan.
Dussehra, also called Vijayadashami, falls on Tuesday, 20 October 2026 across most of India, including Delhi. The festival marks the close of Navratri and celebrates the triumph of good over evil, with effigies of Ravan burnt at public grounds in many northern cities.
Dashami tithi and the date question
The Dashami tithi begins at about 12:50 pm on 20 October and continues until around 2:11 pm on 21 October, according to Dainik Jagran, which cited the Ujjain panchang. Drik Panchang lists Tuesday, 20 October, as Vijayadashami.
Because the tithi spans two days, local observance varies. Dainik Jagran reported that parts of West Bengal and Mysuru, as well as the Ujjain calendar, mark the day on Wednesday, 21 October. The Economic Times said 20 October is the date followed in most parts of the country. Readers are advised to confirm with their local temple or panchang.
Vijay Muhurat timings by city (20 October)
The Vijay Muhurat, regarded as the most auspicious window for worship and new beginnings on this day, lasts about 45 minutes. City-wise timings published by Dainik Jagran are:
- New Delhi: 1:59 pm to 2:45 pm
- Noida: 1:59 pm to 2:44 pm
- Mumbai: 2:19 pm to 3:06 pm
- Bengaluru: 2:02 pm to 2:49 pm
- Chennai: 1:52 pm to 2:39 pm
- Kolkata: 1:17 pm to 2:03 pm
- Jaipur: 2:06 pm to 2:51 pm
For those following the Ujjain calendar on 21 October, the newspaper listed a Vijay Muhurat of 2:05 pm to 2:50 pm and an Aparahna period for puja from 1:19 pm to 3:36 pm.
Ravan Dahan and regional customs
Neither source gives a fixed muhurat for Ravan Dahan. Dainik Jagran noted that the timing of the effigy burning depends on local custom and on the schedule chosen by the committees organising each event. Effigies of Ravan, Meghnad and Kumbhakarna are traditionally set alight at large public gatherings, often after days of Ramlila performances, The Economic Times reported.
In West Bengal and other eastern states, Vijayadashami brings Durga Puja to a close with prayers and the immersion of the goddess’s idols. In southern and western India, the day is linked with worship, cultural events and the start of new ventures, according to The Economic Times.
Sources: Dainik Jagran English, The Economic Times (via inkl), Drik Panchang
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