Dussehra 2025 Date, Tithi Time, Significance, Rituals
Posted on September 3, 2025
Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is one of India’s most important festivals, celebrated with grandeur and devotion across the country. The festival marks the victory of good over evil and is observed on the tenth day of the Hindu month of Ashwin, usually falling in September or October.
- Dussehra 2025 Date: Thursday, October 2.
- Dashami Tithi Begins – 07:01 PM on Oct 01.
- Dashami Tithi Ends – 07:10 PM on Oct 02.
Significance
Dussehra carries dual mythological significance.
In northern India, it commemorates Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana, the demon king of Lanka, symbolising the triumph of righteousness and truth. Effigies of Ravana, along with Meghnath and Kumbhakarna, are burnt, reflecting the destruction of evil forces.
In eastern and southern India, the day also marks the end of the nine-day Durga Puja festival, celebrating Goddess Durga’s victory over the buffalo demon Mahishasura, signifying the power of divine feminine energy.
The festival teaches the eternal lesson that evil, no matter how powerful, cannot withstand truth, courage, and virtue.
Rituals and Celebrations
The rituals of Dussehra vary from region to region but share the common theme of honouring victory and justice.
Ramlila Performances: The life and deeds of Lord Rama are enacted in open-air plays, culminating in the burning of Ravana’s effigy on Dussehra.
Effigy Burning: Giant effigies stuffed with crackers are set on fire, symbolising the defeat of arrogance and sin.
Durga Visarjan: In states like West Bengal, Odisha, and Assam, idols of Goddess Durga are immersed in rivers or seas with grand processions, marking her return to Mount Kailash.
Shami Puja & Ayudha Puja: In parts of Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu, people worship weapons, tools, and even vehicles, seeking blessings for success and protection.
Exchange of ‘Apta Leaves’: In Maharashtra, people exchange apta (golden) leaves as a symbol of goodwill and prosperity.
Cultural Unity
While celebrated differently across regions, Dussehra unites India in a spirit of festivity, faith, and hope. It reminds people to overcome personal struggles, eliminate negativity, and embrace truth and virtue in their lives.