Dussehra and Vijayadashami 2026: Know the Difference Between Dussehra and Vijayadashami

Vijayadashmi and Dussehra

The festival of Dussehra falls on the Dashmi tithi of the Shukla Paksha of the Ashwin month and is celebrated with great pomp throughout the country. This festival is also known as Vijayadashami. In this article, we will tell you the difference between Vijayadashmi and Dussehra.

Difference Between Vijayadashami and Dussehra

Dussehra and Vijayadashami are two different names and aspects of the same festival, but there are two different mythologies behind celebrating them. It is known as Dussehra because it falls on the tenth day of the Ashwin month, and on this day Goddess Durga wins over Mahishasura, which is why it is also known as Vijayadashami.

Know the story behind Dussehra and Vijayadashami

Vijayadashmi

The name Vijayadashami is associated with Maa Durga and Mahishasura. According to mythology, Maa Durga fought a fierce battle with the demon Mahishasura for nine days. After this, on the tenth day of the Ashwin month, Goddess killed Mahishasura and freed the gods and the entire world from him.

Worship of the Shami tree: On this day, there is a tradition of worshiping the Shami tree in South India and many other states. It is believed that the Pandavas also hid their weapons on the Shami tree during their exile (Vanvaas) and got them back on the day of Vijayadashami. 

Dussehra

Another story states that the word Dussehra is associated with the Treta Yug. On this day, Lord Ram killed King Ravan of Lanka and freed Goddess Sita from his captivity. Ravan had 10 heads, which are considered symbols of ego, anger, greed, etc. So, the festival of killing Ravan and burning his effigy (Putla) came to be known as Dussehra. On this day, the victory of truth over untruth and righteousness over unrighteousness is celebrated.

Religious Significance of Dussehra and Vijayadashami

Victory of good over evil: Whether we talk about the burning of Ravan or the killing of Mahishasura by Maa Durga, both incidents teach us that no matter how powerful sin and ego are, truth and goodness always win in the end.

Auspicious day to start new work: Vijayadashami is considered an extremely auspicious day. Starting any new work, buying a vehicle, entering the house, or starting children's education on this day is considered very auspicious.