Quick answer: Dussehra 2026 (Vijayadashami) in Madhya Pradesh is on Tuesday, 20 October 2026 (Navratri 11–19 October; Durga Ashtami 18, Maha Navami 19). Madhya Pradesh combines grand Ramlila and Ravan Dahan with Navratri pilgrimages to Maihar’s Sharda Devi — and a few towns that, unusually, honour Ravana. Perform the Vijayadashami puja in the Aparahna (early-afternoon) window — confirm the exact Vijay Muhurat for Bhopal with a local panchang.

Madhya Pradesh combines grand Ramlila and Ravan Dahan with Navratri pilgrimages to Maihar’s Sharda Devi — and a few towns that, unusually, honour Ravana.

How Madhya Pradesh celebrates Dussehra & Navratri 2026

Cities such as Indore, Bhopal, Gwalior and Jabalpur burn towering Ravana effigies on Vijayadashami. Navratri brings vast crowds to the hill shrine of Maihar (Sharda Devi), reached by ropeway and steps, and to Salkanpur, Ujjain (Harsiddhi) and Datia (Peetambara).

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In a rare tradition, Ravangram near Vidisha and parts of Mandsaur — linked to Mandodari’s legend — venerate Ravana rather than burn him.

Where to celebrate in Madhya Pradesh

  • Sharda Devi temple, Maihar
  • Harsiddhi temple, Ujjain
  • Salkanpur Devi
  • Ravangram (Vidisha) and Mandsaur (Ravana traditions)

Dussehra 2026 dates in Madhya Pradesh

Date

Observance

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Sunday, 11 October

Navratri begins (Ghatasthapana)

Sunday, 18 October

Durga Ashtami

Monday, 19 October

Maha Navami / Ayudha Puja

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Tuesday, 20 October

Dussehra / Vijayadashami

Sunday, 8 November

Diwali

The Vijay Muhurat falls in the early afternoon and varies by city; use a panchang set to your town or check today's panchangam for Bhopal and other cities in Madhya Pradesh. Neighbouring Karnataka observes Vijayadashami on 21 October under the Mysuru panchanga.

Frequently asked questions

When is Dussehra 2026 in Madhya Pradesh?

Vijayadashami and Ravan Dahan are on Tuesday 20 October 2026; Navratri runs 11–19 October.

Is Ravana worshipped anywhere in Madhya Pradesh?

Yes — Ravangram near Vidisha and parts of Mandsaur maintain a tradition of venerating Ravana, linked to Mandodari’s legend.

Dussehra & Navratri 2026 — India state guides

Explore Dussehra, Navratri and Dasara 2026 across India and the wider guides: