Quick answer: Dussehra 2026 (Vijayadashami) in Odisha is on Tuesday, 20 October 2026 (Navratri 11–19 October; Durga Ashtami 18, Maha Navami 19). Odisha celebrates Dussehra as Durga Puja, and Cuttack is renowned for its dazzling silver and gold filigree (chandi/tarakasi) backdrops for the goddess. Perform the Vijayadashami puja in the Aparahna (early-afternoon) window — confirm the exact Vijay Muhurat for Bhubaneswar with a local panchang.

Odisha celebrates Dussehra as Durga Puja, and Cuttack is renowned for its dazzling silver and gold filigree (chandi/tarakasi) backdrops for the goddess.

How Odisha celebrates Dussehra & Navratri 2026

Cuttack’s pandals are famous for medhas decorated in the city’s traditional silver and gold filigree work, and Bhubaneswar, Sambalpur and Rourkela hold large pujas. The festival moves through Shashthi to Bijaya Dashami, ending with immersion processions.

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Devi shrines across the state, and Ramlila and Ravan Podi (effigy burning) in some towns, round out the celebrations.

Where to celebrate in Odisha

  • Cuttack silver-filigree pandals
  • Bhubaneswar and Sambalpur pujas
  • Ravan Podi grounds in western Odisha

Dussehra 2026 dates in Odisha

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 Bhubaneswar and other cities in Odisha. Neighbouring Karnataka observes Vijayadashami on 21 October under the Mysuru panchanga.

Frequently asked questions

When is Durga Puja / Dussehra 2026 in Odisha?

The main puja days fall over 18–20 October 2026, with Vijaya Dashami and immersion on 20 October.

What is Cuttack famous for during Durga Puja?

Cuttack’s pandals are known for medhas adorned with the city’s heritage silver and gold filigree (chandi medha and tarakasi).

Dussehra & Navratri 2026 — India state guides

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