Vijayadasami 2026 Date, Puja Timings, and Festival Details

Vijayadasami – The Festival of Victory, Wisdom, and New Beginnings

Vijayadasami, also known as Dussehra or Dasara, is one of the most auspicious Hindu festivals celebrated across India. Marking the victory of good over evil, Vijayadasami falls on the tenth day of Navaratri and symbolizes success, knowledge, courage, and new beginnings.

Observed with devotion and cultural grandeur, Vijayadasami holds spiritual, historical, and social significance for millions of people.

What is Vijayadasami?

Vijayadasami literally means “Victory on the Tenth Day” (Vijaya = victory, Dasami = tenth day). It commemorates:

• Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana

• Goddess Durga’s triumph over Mahishasura

• The power of righteousness (Dharma) over evil (Adharma)

This day is considered highly auspicious for starting new ventures, education, business, and spiritual practices.

Why is Vijayadasami Celebrated?

Vijayadasami represents:

✔ Victory of good over evil
✔ Removal of negativity
✔ Beginning of success and prosperity
✔ Blessings for knowledge and learning

People believe that any activity started on Vijayadasami leads to growth and success.

Vijayadasami Traditions and Rituals

1. Ayudha Puja

Tools, vehicles, books, and instruments are cleaned and worshipped to seek divine blessings for productivity and success.

2. Vidyarambham (Starting Education)

Children begin learning alphabets on this day. It’s considered the best time to start education.

3. Shami Tree Worship

Leaves of the Shami tree are exchanged as symbols of prosperity and gold.

4. Ramlila and Ravana Effigy Burning

In North India, dramatic enactments of Ramayana end with burning Ravana’s effigy, symbolizing destruction of evil.

5. Durga Visarjan

In Bengal and eastern states, idols of Goddess Durga are immersed in water with grand celebrations.

Vijayadasami Celebrations Across India

North India

• Dussehra fairs and Ramlila

• Burning of Ravana, Kumbhakarna, and Meghnath effigies

South India

• Ayudha Puja

• Golu doll displays

• Vidyarambham ceremony

West India

• Garba and Dandiya

• Processions and cultural programs

East India

• Durga Puja immersion

• Grand pandals and festivities

Spiritual Significance of Vijayadasami

Vijayadasami teaches that:

• Truth always wins

• Patience leads to success

• Knowledge removes darkness

• Faith brings strength

It inspires individuals to overcome personal challenges and begin life with positivity.

Best Things to Do on Vijayadasami

People commonly:

• Start new businesses

• Buy vehicles or gold

• Enroll children in school

• Begin creative or spiritual practices

• Perform housewarming ceremonies