6 Dussehra FAQs: Is Dussehra a public holiday in India, when is Dussehra 2025, what is Ravana Dahan and Durga visarjan

Updated on: Sep 30, 2025, 08:35:20 IST

By Sanya Panwar

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Dussehra is the last day of the Navaratri festival. Giant effigies of Ravana, along with his son Meghnad and brother Kumbhkaran, are burnt in public spaces. (File Photo/ PTI)

Dussehra 2025 is days away. Dussehra celebrations vary across different parts of India. Here are some frequently asked questions about Dussehra.

Dussehra 2025 is almost here. Dussehra, or Vijayadashami, is a major Hindu festival celebrating the victory of good over evil. While in north India, Dussehra festivities include Ramlila performances and effigy burning, in east India, especially Bengal, the end of Durga Puja is celebrated with sindoor khela and dhunuchi dance. Also read | When is Dussehra this year? Check correct date, Vijayadashami shubh muhurat

What is Dussehra?

Celebrated on the 10th day of the Ashwin month, Dussehra marks two significant triumphs: Lord Rama's defeat of Ravana and Goddess Durga's conquest of Mahishasura, symbolising the restoration of righteousness and protection of the universe.

When is Dussehra 2025?

Dussehra 2025 will be celebrated on Thursday, October 2, 2025.

What are the main rituals of Dussehra?

⦿ Ram Lila performances: Dramatic retellings of the Ramayana, an ancient Indian epic that tells the story of Lord Rama's journey to rescue his wife Sita from the demon king Ravana.

⦿ Ravana Dahan: Burning effigies of Ravana, symbolising the destruction of evil.

⦿ Shami tree worship: Worshipping the Shami tree for strength, prosperity, and valour.

⦿ Ayudha puja: Worshipping tools, vehicles, and instruments for prosperity and knowledge.

⦿ Durga visarjan: Immersing Goddess Durga idols in water, signifying the transition from physical form to formlessness.

What is significance of Vijay Muhurat on Dussehra?

Vijay Muhurat is considered highly auspicious for starting new ventures, buying new assets, or performing rituals. In 2025, it will be observed from 2:09 pm to 2:56 pm on October 2, as per Drikpanchang.com.

How is Dussehra celebrated across India?

Dussehra celebrations vary across regions, including Ramlila performances, effigy burning, Durga Puja, Golu doll setups, and cultural events. The regional variations of Dussehra showcase the diversity and richness of Indian culture, while still honouring the core theme of the festival, which is the triumph of good over evil:

⦿ North India: Ram Lila, effigy burning, and Ayudha Puja

⦿ East India (West Bengal): Durga Puja, idol immersion, and Sindoor Khela

⦿ South India: Golu doll setups, processions, and cultural events

⦿ Mysore (Karnataka): royal processions, decorated elephants, and cultural shows

⦿ Kullu (Himachal Pradesh): week-long festival with processions and rituals

Is Dussehra a public holiday?

Yes, Dussehra is a public and bank holiday across many Indian states.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Sanya Panwar
With a keen eye for detail and a heart for storytelling, Sanya is a seasoned lifestyle journalist who has spent over a decade documenting the intersection of aesthetics and substance. Since stepping into the media world in 2012, she has cultivated a career defined by versatility, curiosity, and an unwavering passion for what makes life both beautiful and meaningful. Over the last many years, she has navigated the fast-paced realms of health, wellness, fitness and fashion while pivoting seamlessly into the nuances of decor and travel. Her work often explores the deeper layers of modern living, delving into art and decor trends that transform spaces, insightful perspectives on gender, parenting, and mental health, immersive travel narratives that capture the essence of a destination. A self-proclaimed aesthetics enthusiast, Sanya doesn't just report on trends — she analyses them. Whether she’s identifying the next shift in fitness or discovering a breakthrough in design, she uses her platform to spark meaningful conversations that resonate with a contemporary audience. Sanya is an alumna of St. Xavier’s College, Kolkata, and the Asian College of Journalism (ACJ), Chennai, where she honed the investigative rigour she brings to her lifestyle reporting today. When she isn't chasing deadlines or conducting interviews, Sanya practices what she preaches. You’ll likely find her sipping matcha, practicing yoga, or scouting the newest cafes. Above all, she finds her balance in nature — whether it's a quiet hike or a moment of reflection in the outdoors, she remains constantly inspired by the tranquillity of the natural world.Read More

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