PART 2
Dussehra and Vijayadashami Across India
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20 October 2026
As the festive season reaches its close in many parts of India, the celebrations take different forms. In one town, towering effigies rise above an open ground. Somewhere else, a decorated chariot moves through crowded streets, a family prepares to immerse an idol, or children begin their first lessons. These scenes may appear unrelated, yet they belong to a season shaped by stories of victory, renewal and the hope that good can overcome evil.
In much of northern India, Dussehra recalls the Ramayana, particularly Rama’s victory over Ravana. Ramlila performances bring episodes of the epic to life, often over several evenings, before the burning of effigies marks the festival’s climax. For families watching together, it is also a public spectacle of theatre, music, craftsmanship and community.
In West Bengal and Assam, the Durga Puja season centres on Goddess Durga’s victory over Mahishasura. The farewell to the goddess carries a mixture of celebration and sadness. In Bengal, Bijoya Dashami falls on 21 October this year, when the festive period reaches its traditional farewell. The day brings greetings, visits and embraces that reconnect relatives, friends and neighbours.
Elsewhere, the season has its own character. Mysuru in Karnataka is renowned for its illuminated palace and grand Dasara procession. In Himachal Pradesh, Kullu Dussehra brings village deities and their communities together in a distinctive gathering. In Bastar, Chhattisgarh, the long-running Dussehra tradition follows local customs and does not centre on the burning of Ravana’s effigy.
The stories behind these celebrations differ, and their meanings are deeply rooted in their communities. Yet they create opportunities for people to gather, share food, watch performances, welcome visitors and pass traditions to younger generations.
One may encounter a dramatic procession, another a quiet family ritual. There is room for both. A festival becomes part of a region’s identity not only through its legends, but through the people who keep its customs alive.
Perhaps this is one of India’s most remarkable qualities: a shared festive season does not have to look the same everywhere. Its richness comes from the many ways communities express memory, belonging and hope.
To be continued in the lives and traditions that carry these celebrations forward.
#Dussehra #Vijayadashami #IndianCulture #RajatChandraSarmah
Rajat Chandra Sarmah, Guwahati, Assam, India, Instagram @rajatchandrasarmah, YouTube: conversewithasmile, email rajatchandrasarmah@gmail.com
