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Dussehra 2026 (Vijayadashami): Date, Meaning and Traditions
In brief
Dussehra 2026, also called Vijayadashami, falls on the tenth day after Navratri begins and celebrates the victory of good over evil. Confirm the local holiday date with state or school calendars.
Dussehra (Vijayadashami) 2026 follows the nine nights of Navratri. It commemorates Rama’s victory over Ravana in the Ramayana tradition and, in other regions, Durga’s victory over Mahishasura. Exact public-holiday listings can differ by state.
When is Dussehra 2026?
Use our Dussehra countdown for the commonly published date, then verify with your state holiday list. Many cities stage Ramlila plays and fairs in the days leading up to it.
How is Dussehra different from Diwali?
Dussehra marks the tenth day after Navratri; Diwali usually follows a few weeks later as the festival of lights. Read Navratri 2026 and Diwali 2026 for the full autumn sequence.
Last updated: 12 Oct 2026. Re-check state holiday notifications.
Related on ViralScopeHub: festivals · India news.
Why it matters
Festival-date searches cluster around Navratri–Dussehra–Diwali. A neutral explainer with internal festival links captures that journey.
People also ask
What is another name for Dussehra?
Vijayadashami.
Does Dussehra come before Diwali?
Yes. Dussehra follows Navratri; Diwali is usually a few weeks later.
Is Dussehra a public holiday everywhere in India?
It is widely observed, but official holiday lists are issued by states and employers.
Sources
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