Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, will be celebrated across India on October 2, 2025. The festival marks the triumph of good over evil and is observed with grandeur in different regions through unique traditions and rituals. It also signifies the conclusion of the nine-day Navratri festival.Dussehra 2025: Date and Time
According to the Hindu calendar, Vijayadashami falls on the Dashami Tithi of Shukla Paksha in the month of Ashwina. This year, the auspicious timings are as follows:
- Dashami Tithi Begins: 07:01 PM, October 01, 2025
- Dashami Tithi Ends: 07:10 PM, October 02, 2025
- Shravana Nakshatra Begins: 09:13 AM, October 02, 2025
- Shravana Nakshatra Ends: 09:34 AM, October 03, 2025
- Vijay Muhurat: 02:09 PM – 02:56 PM
- Aparahna Puja Time: 01:21 PM – 03:44 PM
Spiritual Significance of Vijayadashami
Dussehra has deep cultural and spiritual meaning for Hindus. The festival is a reminder that righteousness ultimately defeats unrighteousness. Two major stories are linked to this celebration:
Durga’s Triumph Over Mahishasura
Navratri concludes with the victory of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura. This story highlights the eternal message that no matter how strong evil forces appear, they will always be defeated by truth and dharma.
Rama’s Victory Over Ravana
The day also commemorates Lord Rama’s victory over the demon king Ravana, who had abducted Sita. With the help of Laxman, Hanuman, and his army, Rama killed Ravana. In North India, effigies of Ravana, Kumbhakarna, and Meghnad are burnt as symbols of the destruction of evil.
Dussehra 2025: Puja Rituals
Devotees across India perform special rituals on Vijayadashami. Common practices include:
- Waking up early and cleaning the house and puja room.
- Lighting a ghee diya in the home temple.
- Making symbolic idols of Ravana, Meghnad, and Kumbhakarna using clay or cow dung.
- Preparing sweets like kheer, halwa, and poori as bhog for Lord Rama.
- Decorating homes with rangoli and diyas.
- Offering flowers, garlands, and prasad.
- Lighting at least 11 diyas with desi ghee.
- Participating in evening celebrations and Ramlila events.
Why Dussehra Matters
Beyond its religious context, Dussehra is a cultural festival that strengthens community bonds. From the grand Ramlila performances in Delhi to Durga visarjan in Bengal, every region brings its own tradition to the celebration. The festival also inspires people to conquer personal negativity and embrace truth and positivity.
