The golden hues of autumn, the scent of incense, the chants of prayers, and the crackle of fireworks — all come together to mark the grand finale of India’s most cherished festive season: Vijayadashami, also known as Dussehra. This auspicious day celebrates the victory of good over evil, light over darkness, and truth over falsehood.
In 2025, Vijayadashami (Dussehra) falls on Thursday, 2nd October. From the burning effigies of Ravana to the immersion of Goddess Durga’s idol in rivers and seas, the entire country reverberates with devotion, joy, and cultural splendor.
Let us explore the date, rituals, significance, and how Dussehra 2025 will be celebrated across India, weaving together mythology, tradition, and modern spirit.
Vijayadashami (Dussehra) Information
| Fact | Details |
| Festival Name | Vijayadashami / Dussehra |
| Date in 2025 | Thursday, 2nd October 2025 |
| Tithi (Lunar Day) | Dashami Tithi of Shukla Paksha, Ashwin month |
| Main Rituals | Ravan Dahan, Durga Visarjan, Shami Puja, Seema Avalanghan, Ayudha Puja |
| Significance | Victory of good over evil — Lord Rama defeating Ravana & Goddess Durga slaying Mahishasura |
| Goddess Worshipped | Goddess Durga (in eastern India) |
| Lord Worshipped | Lord Rama (in northern India) |
| Key Regions of Celebration | Pan-India — West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra |
| Associated Festivals | Navratri, Durga Puja, Mysuru Dasara |
When is Vijayadashami/Dussehra in 2025?
According to the Hindu lunar calendar, Vijayadashami occurs on the Dashami Tithi (tenth day) of the Shukla Paksha in Ashwin month, marking the culmination of the Navratri and Durga Puja festivals.
- In 2025, Vijayadashami/Dussehra is on Thursday, 2nd October.
- The Dashami Tithi starts at sunrise and continues until the next morning, but exact puja timings may vary slightly by region.
This day is considered highly auspicious for starting new ventures, buying gold or vehicles, learning something new, or even moving into a new home — as it symbolizes success and positivity.
Why is Vijayadashami Celebrated?
Vijayadashami carries profound spiritual and cultural significance, with two prominent legends associated with it:
The Victory of Lord Rama
In the epic Ramayana, Lord Rama defeated the demon king Ravana on this day after a fierce battle in Lanka. His triumph over Ravana, who represented arrogance, lust, and greed, symbolizes the eternal victory of righteousness over evil. To commemorate this, massive effigies of Ravana, his brother Kumbhakarna, and son Meghnad are burned across India, accompanied by fireworks and cheers.
The Slaying of Mahishasura
In the Devi Mahatmya, it is said that after nine days of intense battle, Goddess Durga slew the buffalo demon Mahishasura on Vijayadashami. This legend is especially celebrated in eastern India, where Durga Puja culminates with the immersion (visarjan) of the goddess’s idols.
Thus, the day honors both Lord Rama and Goddess Durga, representing divine courage and justice.
Rituals of Vijayadashami 2025
Different parts of India have unique ways of observing Vijayadashami, but they all share a common theme of reverence and joy. Here are the key rituals you’ll witness on Dussehra 2025:
- Ravan Dahan
Perhaps the most iconic ritual, Ravan Dahan, involves burning enormous effigies of Ravana, Kumbhakarna, and Meghnad at dusk. The fiery spectacle is accompanied by the enactment of Ramayana scenes (Ramlila), music, dance, and crackers. It draws thousands of spectators to open grounds, especially in Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Punjab.
- Shami Puja & Seema Avalanghan
In parts of Maharashtra and Karnataka, people perform Shami Puja, worshipping the Shami tree, which is believed to have protected the Pandavas during their exile. Neighbors exchange its leaves as a symbol of goodwill and prosperity. Another local custom, Seema Avalanghan, involves crossing the village boundary and symbolically conquering new ground — signifying growth and success.
- Durga Visarjan
In West Bengal, Assam, and Odisha, Durga Visarjan takes place on Vijayadashami, marking the departure of the goddess after the Durga Puja festivities. Devotees carry the beautifully decorated idols in vibrant processions and immerse them in water bodies, chanting “Bolo Durga Mai Ki Jai!” — a sight both joyous and emotional.
- Starting New Ventures
Since the day is associated with victory and good fortune, many people start new businesses, buy property or vehicles, and enroll in educational courses. Weapons and tools are also worshipped (Ayudha Puja) in some regions, particularly in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.
How is Vijayadashami Celebrated Across India?
- North India
In Delhi, Lucknow, and Varanasi, the air crackles with excitement as Ramlila plays are staged in the evenings, culminating in the spectacular Ravan Dahan. Families dress in traditional attire, offer prayers, and gather at grounds to watch the fireworks.
- West Bengal & East India
For Bengalis, Vijayadashami signifies the end of Durga Puja. After four days of elaborate rituals, families bid farewell to Maa Durga with heartfelt prayers and immerse her idol in rivers, symbolizing her return to Mount Kailash. Married women also play Sindoor Khela (smearing vermillion on each other) before the immersion.
- South India
In Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, Dasara is celebrated with royal grandeur, especially in Mysuru. The Mysore Palace is illuminated with thousands of lights, and processions with elephants, dancers, and musicians parade through the streets. Houses and temples are decorated with dolls and flowers, and Ayudha Puja is performed on this day.
- Western India
In Maharashtra and Gujarat, people worship the Shami tree and exchange its leaves as gold. Garba and Dandiya dances continue through the night, extending the Navratri celebrations into Vijayadashami.
Vijayadashami and Dussehra: Are They the Same?
While the terms Vijayadashami and Dussehra are often used interchangeably, they carry subtle nuances.
Vijayadashami means “the tenth day of victory,” focusing on the spiritual triumph of good over evil — worshipping both Durga and Rama.
Dussehra comes from “Dasha Hara,” meaning “removal of ten (sins)” — symbolizing the destruction of Ravana’s ten heads, each representing a negative quality.
Both refer to the same day but highlight different aspects of its rich mythology.
Why Vijayadashami Matters
Beyond rituals and legends, Vijayadashami reminds us of important truths:
- That courage and righteousness always defeat arrogance and injustice.
- That good intentions, when combined with effort and devotion, lead to success.
- That letting go of negativity — symbolized by burning Ravana or immersing the goddess — is essential for personal growth.
- Whether you light a lamp at home, attend a Ramlila, or simply pause to reflect, Vijayadashami inspires us to overcome our inner demons and embrace positivity.
Preparing for Vijayadashami 2025
If you wish to participate in the celebrations this year, here are a few ways to prepare:
- Check the local Dashami Tithi and muhurat timings for your region.
- Arrange offerings like flowers, fruits, incense, and sweets for your home puja.
- Plan to attend a Ramlila or Durga Visarjan in your city.
- Consider starting something new — even a small habit or goal — to harness the auspicious energy of the day.
- Spend time with family and friends, sharing joy and positivity.
Also Read:
In conclusion, On Thursday, 2nd October 2025, India will once again come alive in a blaze of devotion and celebration as we honor the eternal victory of good over evil. Whether you witness the majestic Mysuru Dasara, the fiery Ravan Dahan in Delhi, or the emotional Durga Visarjan in Kolkata, the spirit of Vijayadashami is universal — a reminder of resilience, hope, and righteousness.
So light a lamp, offer your prayers, and let go of negativity. May the blessings of Lord Rama and Goddess Durga fill your life with courage, success, and happiness on this Vijayadashami 2025.