The towering effigy of Ravana, ablaze against the night sky, is the defining image of Dussehra in North India. But Ravana Dahan is more than spectacle — it is a profound symbol. This HinduTone guide explains why we burn Ravana and what Ravana Dahan really means, for Vijayadashami 2026 (20 October).

Ravana Dahan marks the moment Lord Rama defeated Ravana — the victory of dharma over adharma, and of our higher self over ego and ignorance.

The Story Behind Ravana Dahan

After a long war to rescue Sita, Lord Rama killed the ten-headed demon king Ravana of Lanka on Vijayadashami. To commemorate this, communities stage Ramlila — dramatisations of the Ramayana — and burn giant effigies of Ravana, often with Kumbhakarna and Meghnad, on Dussehra evening.

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What the Ten Heads Represent

Ravana’s ten heads are often interpreted as the ten vices to be conquered within ourselves — kama (lust), krodha (anger), lobha (greed), moha (delusion), mada (pride), matsarya (jealousy), and the failings of the mind and senses. Burning Ravana is symbolically burning these flaws.

The Deeper Meaning

  • Victory of good over evil and dharma over adharma
  • The destruction of the ego (ahankara)
  • A reminder that even great power and learning are undone by arrogance
  • An annual call to renew our own inner virtue

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why do we burn Ravana on Dussehra?

To commemorate Rama’s victory over Ravana and to symbolically destroy evil, ego and the vices within us.

What do Ravana’s ten heads mean?

They are commonly seen as ten vices — lust, anger, greed, delusion, pride, jealousy and more — to be conquered within.

When is Ravana Dahan in 2026?

On Vijayadashami evening, 20 October 2026 (diaspora events often on the nearest weekend).

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  • Dussehra / Vijayadashami 2026 — Complete Guide
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  • Dussehra Wishes, Quotes & Vijayadashami Greetings 2026