Ravan Dahan 2026: Dates, City‑Wise Vijay Muhurat & Celebration Details

Mark your calendars – Dussehra this year lands on Tuesday, 20 October 2026. Across the sub‑continent, people will gather for Ramlila shows that culminate in the dramatic burning of Ravana’s effigy, a rite that symbolizes the triumph of good over evil.

While the overall date is fixed, the exact moment when the pyre is lit – the Vijay Muhurat – shifts from city to city. Organisers typically wait for the sun to set, but the auspicious window is dictated by local priests and astronomical calculations.

According to Drik Panchang, the Dashami tithi begins at 12:50 pm on 20 October and runs until 2:11 pm the next day. Within that span, each metropolis has its own slot deemed most favourable for the ritual.

City‑wise Vijay Muhurat timings (all on 20 Oct 2026)

• New Delhi: 1:59 pm – 2:45 pm
• Mumbai: 2:19 pm – 3:06 pm
• Pune: 2:16 pm – 3:02 pm
• Bengaluru: 2:02 pm – 2:49 pm
• Chennai: 1:52 pm – 2:39 pm
• Hyderabad: 1:57 pm – 2:44 pm
• Kolkata: 1:17 pm – 2:03 pm
• Ahmedabad: 2:20 pm – 3:06 pm
• Jaipur: 2:06 pm – 2:51 pm
• Chandigarh: 2:00 pm – 2:46 pm

These slots are meant for puja and chanting; the actual fire‑sacrifice may start a few minutes later, depending on local logistics. If you’re planning to attend, it’s wise to arrive early, secure a good spot, and keep an eye on any last‑minute changes announced by municipal authorities.

Why do we burn Ravana’s effigy? The story harks back to the epic Ramayana, where Lord Rama defeats the ten‑headed demon king Ravana, ending his tyrannical rule over Lanka. The blaze is a vivid reminder that arrogance and vice eventually give way to virtue and truth.

In many regions, especially in West Bengal, the same day also celebrates Goddess Durga’s victory over Mahishasura, linking Dussehra to the grand Durga Puja festivities. Whether you’re watching the towering effigy at Delhi’s Rashtrapati Bhavan, the vibrant pyre in Mumbai’s Shivaji Park, or a community fire‑show in a small town, the underlying message stays the same: stand up for righteousness.

So, whether you’re a devout follower, a cultural enthusiast, or just someone who loves a good fireworks display, note the timing for your city, plan your journey, and join the collective roar as the flames rise higher, marking another year of hope and renewal.