Auspicious timings set for Dussehra rituals across India

Dussehra, the festival celebrating the triumph of good over evil, will be observed with traditional ceremonies on October 20, with specific timings determined by the Hindu lunar calendar. The Pradosh Kaal, considered an auspicious period for rituals, will extend from 5:47 PM to 8:23 PM, making it the optimal window for weapon worship and the burning of Ravana effigies.

The burning of Ravana's effigy represents the symbolic destruction of the demon king's arrogance and evil intent, marking Lord Rama's legendary victory. This ritual, performed during sunset hours, commemorates the ancient Hindu epic and reinforces moral lessons about the ultimate triumph of righteousness.

According to the Panchang, the Hindu astrological calendar, the Pradosh Kaal period identified for October 20 provides what is traditionally regarded as an auspicious and spiritually potent time for conducting these ceremonies. The timing, aligned with the natural cycle of dusk, has been considered especially favorable for Dussehra observances across generations.

Millions of devotees across India prepare elaborate effigies of the ten-headed Ravana during the lead-up to Dussehra. The public burning of these effigies, accompanied by festive celebrations and community gatherings, remains a central feature of the festival across numerous states and regions.