World · India Bureau
Dussehra falls on October 20; Ravana effigy burning timings announced
The auspicious occasion of Dussehra will be observed on Tuesday, October 20, according to the Hindu lunar calendar. The Ravana Dahan ritual timings have been determined based on astronomical calculations.
LSN India ·
Dussehra will be celebrated on October 20, 2024, following the Udaya Tithi system observed across India. The Ashwin Shukla Dashami tithi—the tenth lunar day in the Hindu calendar—will commence at 12:50 p.m. on October 20 and conclude at 2:11 p.m. on October 21.
The festival, marking the triumph of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana and the victory of good over evil, holds significant cultural importance in Hindu tradition. Dussehra celebrations span ten days preceding the final day of festivities.
Devotees observing the festival are advised to note the auspicious timing for Ravana Dahan—the ritual burning of Ravana effigies—which traditionally takes place during the final day celebrations. The precise timings ensure adherence to religious customs and astrological considerations observed during the festival.
Dussehra will be followed by Diwali, the festival of lights, which is typically celebrated twenty days later. These festivals mark the transition from the monsoon season into autumn across much of India.
Photo: A Ravana effigy burns at Dussehra celebrations at Subhash Maidan, Delhi, October 2012. Press Information Bureau for the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, via Wikimedia Commons (GODL-India).