Is Dussehra 2026 on October 20 or 21? If you’ve checked different festival calendars, you may have noticed both dates. Dussehra will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 20, in most parts of India, while Bengal Vijayadashami falls on Wednesday, October 21. Mysuru Dasara also observes Vijayadashami on October 21. The difference comes from Dashami Tithi timings and regional traditions.

When Is Dussehra 2026?

According to Drik Panchang’s Kolkata calendar, Dussehra falls on October 20, 2026, while Bengal Vijayadashami will be observed on October 21. Here are the important dates and timings:

• Dussehra 2026 Date: Tuesday, October 20
• Bengal Vijayadashami 2026: Wednesday, October 21
• Dashami Tithi Begins: October 20 at 12:50 PM
• Dashami Tithi Ends: October 21 at 2:11 PM

These timings are based on the Kolkata Panchang and follow Indian Standard Time. While most parts of India will celebrate Dussehra on October 20, Bengali communities will observe Vijayadashami on October 21 as part of their Durga Puja traditions.

Dussehra 2026 Puja Muhurat and Important Timings

Dussehra is a time when families come together to offer prayers and follow their traditional rituals. Some families also perform Shami Puja and Aparajita Puja. According to Drik Panchang, here are the important puja timings for Kolkata:

Tuesday, October 20, 2026

• Vijay Muhurat: 1:17 PM to 2:03 PM
• Dashami Tithi begins: 12:50 PM

Wednesday, October 21, 2026

• Bengal Vijayadashami Aparahna Puja: 12:30 PM to 2:49 PM
• Dashami Tithi ends: 2:11 PM

Many people consider Vijay Muhurat a good time to perform traditional prayers. Since puja timings can change slightly from one city to another, check your local Panchang before making plans.

Why Is Dussehra Celebrated in India?

Dussehra, also called Vijayadashami, is all about celebrating the victory of good over evil. According to the Ramayana, Lord Rama defeated Ravana and rescued Sita. Dussehra celebrates this victory and reminds people to stand up for what is right. The festival also celebrates Goddess Durga’s victory over Mahishasura. Both stories share a similar message: no matter how powerful evil seems, goodness and courage can overcome it. For many families, Dussehra is also a chance to visit temples, meet relatives, enjoy festive food, and spend time together.

How Is Dussehra Celebrated Across India?

Dussehra celebrations are not the same everywhere in India. Some cities are famous for Ramlila performances and Ravana Dahan, while others celebrate with Durga Puja, colorful processions, and traditional prayers. Here’s what makes celebrations in different cities special.

Hyderabad, Telangana: Families offer prayers, follow Jammi tree traditions, and meet relatives during Vijayadashami. Many also perform Ayudha Puja and exchange festive greetings. Specific practices vary by family and community.

Delhi: Dussehra is a major celebration in Delhi. People enjoy Ramlila performances and gather at local grounds to watch Ravana Dahan. The burning of Ravana’s effigies is one of the main attractions.

Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh: Varanasi is known for the famous Ramnagar Ramlila. These traditional performances bring stories from the Ramayana to life and attract visitors from different places.

Kolkata, West Bengal: Vijayadashami marks the end of Durga Puja, and it’s an emotional day for many families. People take part in Sindoor Khela, offer their final prayers to Goddess Durga, and gather for idol immersion. Families also visit each other and share sweets and festive greetings.

Mysuru, Karnataka: Mysuru is famous for its grand Dasara festival. The city hosts cultural programs, palace illumination displays, and the traditional Jumboo Savari procession.

Kullu, Himachal Pradesh: Kullu Dussehra is known for its traditional processions and gatherings of local deities. Unlike many other cities, the celebrations begin on Vijayadashami and continue for several days.

Ahmedabad, Gujarat: People celebrate the festive season with Navratri Garba and Dandiya Raas events. Families also observe Vijayadashami with prayers and traditional rituals.

Other parts of India: Families perform Ayudha Puja, Shami Puja, and other rituals. Many people also decorate their homes, prepare festive food, and spend time with loved ones.

How Is Dussehra Celebrated in the USA?

Indian communities across the USA celebrate Dussehra with cultural programs, temple prayers, Ramlila performances, and family gatherings. Depending on local organizers, celebrations may also include Ravana Dahan and other cultural activities. Here’s how communities in different cities may celebrate the festival.

New York and New Jersey: Indian communities may organize Dussehra events with Ramlila performances, Ravana Dahan, traditional music, and cultural programs. Families gather to celebrate the festival and enjoy Indian food.

Dallas, Texas: Hindu temples and Indian cultural associations may host Vijayadashami prayers, cultural performances, and family events. Some community groups also organize Ramlila and Ravana Dahan celebrations.

Houston, Texas: Families visit temples for special prayers and join community celebrations. Events may include devotional music, cultural programs, and traditional festive meals.

San Francisco Bay Area, California: Indian communities may celebrate Dussehra through temple prayers, Ramlila performances, and cultural gatherings. Bengali associations also organize Durga Puja and Vijayadashami celebrations.

Chicago, Illinois: Hindu temples and Indian associations may arrange religious ceremonies, cultural performances, and family gatherings. Bengali communities also celebrate Vijayadashami with traditional Durga Puja rituals.

Washington, DC Area: Indian communities in Virginia and Maryland may organize Dussehra celebrations with prayers, Ramlila performances, and cultural activities.

Other cities across the USA: Indian families in cities such as Atlanta, Seattle, Boston, and Phoenix also celebrate Dussehra in their own way. Some visit temples, while others enjoy festive meals, meet friends, or attend local community events. No matter where they live, the festival gives families a chance to come together and stay connected to their Indian traditions.

Celebrate Dussehra 2026 with Indian Eagle Flight Deals

Planning to visit India during the festive season? Indian Eagle has a special Dussehra 2026 $25 discount offer on international flight bookings. Whether you’re visiting family or planning a holiday, you can explore available flights and use coupon code DussehraTD26 when booking an eligible ticket.

The offer is available for bookings made between October 15 and 21, 2026. The travel period is open, giving travelers flexibility to plan their trips, subject to flight availability and the offer’s terms and conditions. Check the coupon eligibility and applicable conditions before completing your booking.

Whether you’re celebrating Dussehra in India or the USA, the festival is a time to enjoy traditions, spend time with family, and celebrate the victory of good over evil. Follow your local Panchang for the correct puja timings and make the most of the festive season.

Planning to visit India? Explore Indian Eagle’s Dussehra flight deals and check the applicable coupon terms before booking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Dussehra on October 20 or 21 in 2026?

Dussehra will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, in most parts of India. Bengal Vijayadashami will take place on Wednesday, October 21. Mysuru Dasara also observes Vijayadashami on October 21.

How is Dussehra celebrated in the USA?

Indian communities in the USA celebrate Dussehra with temple prayers, Ramlila performances, cultural programs, and family gatherings. Some communities also organize Ravana Dahan events.

When is Ravana Dahan in 2026?

Most communities celebrating Dussehra on October 20 will organize Ravana Dahan that evening. Exact timings depend on local customs and event arrangements.

What are the Dussehra 2026 puja timings in Kolkata?

According to Drik Panchang, Vijay Muhurat is from 1:17 PM to 2:03 PM on October 20, 2026. Bengal Vijayadashami Aparahna Puja is listed from 12:30 PM to 2:49 PM on October 21. These timings apply to Kolkata and may differ in other cities.

The post When Is Dussehra 2026? Date, Puja Timings and Celebrations in India and USA appeared first on Travel Blog | Travel Inspiration, Tips and News | Travel Diary.