Dussehra 2026 in Kolkata falls on Tuesday, October 20, 2026. Aparahna (afternoon) moment is 1:39 PM GMT+5:30.
The day of victory: Rama slew the ten-headed Ravana and rescued Sita, and Goddess Durga vanquished the buffalo-demon Mahishasura after nine nights of battle. It embodies the triumph of dharma — good over evil, however mighty evil appears.
Towering Ravana effigies stuffed with fireworks burn at dusk across North India as Ramlila concludes; Mysore’s Dasara procession with caparisoned elephants is world-famous; Bengal bids farewell to Durga with sindoor-khela and immersion; Kullu’s Dussehra begins as others end.
An abujha muhurat — auspicious for starting anything new. Many perform Shami and Aparajita puja and Ayudha/Shastra Puja (honoring tools, instruments and vehicles). Vijayadashami is also the classic day for Vidyarambham — a child’s first letters.