Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, celebrates the victory of good over evil. Lord Rama triumphs over Ravana, and Goddess Durga defeats Mahishasura, the shape-shifting demon. On this auspicious occasion, many believe purchases made that day attract prosperity and success in addition to filling the home with positive energy. As a result, people go on shopping sprees for everything from gifts and household items to careful investments for the future.
Date: Tuesday, October 20, 2026
Vijay Muhurat: 2:06 PM to 2:54 PM
Dashami Tithi begins: 12:50 PM on October 20, 2026
Dashami Tithi ends: 2:11 PM on October 21, 2026
Aparahna Puja time: 1:14 PM to 3:30 PM
The Aparahna window is the optimal time for Shami Puja, Aparajita Puja, and Seema Avalanghan. According to the Hindu division of the day, Aparahna time should be dedicated to these rituals for the best effect.
Timings vary by city and panchang. Check your local panchang or temple for exact times.
Certain purchases are part of a long-standing tradition, as they are considered important for growing wealth and maintaining a stable asset base. They include:
Gold and silver: Buying gold jewelry, coins, or bars, with silver as a more affordable option, is thought to invite Goddess Lakshmi’s blessings of wealth. However, the purchase should be backed with the right intention.
New account books or business ledgers (bahikhata): Members of the business community use the occasion to open new account books or begin a fresh financial year, in the hope of profitable and successful decisions.
Vehicles: Cars, two-wheelers, and commercial vehicles bought on this day are believed to bring good luck, ensuring smooth journeys, greater safety, and protected travel. This is why vehicle purchases spike around this time.
Property-related investments: Many people finalize or begin small-scale property purchases, land deals, or home-related investments on this day, trusting that it offers better chances of success.
Professional tools: Buying the equipment needed for one’s work is believed to boost productivity, sharpen skills, and support long-term career growth.
Household metalware: Copper, brass, and steel utensils and other metal items that benefit the household are believed to bring positive energy into the home.
Skill-building resources: Educational materials such as courses, programs, and new tools that stimulate learning are favored as investments for creating helpful tools for career and personal advancement.
All of these purchases reflect people’s desire to use the day’s blessings to plan for long-term security and growth and to fulfil their goals.
Gifts exchanged on Dussehra carry symbolic meaning, good wishes for well-being, and hope for a thriving future. Popular choices include:
Gold or silver coins, or simple jewelry pieces for family members
Religious items such as figurines of Lord Rama, Goddess Durga, or Lord Hanuman, along with pooja essentials and copies of sacred texts
New ethnic or festive clothing
Functional home décor items that carry heartfelt blessings
Eco-friendly options that support the environment and reduce waste
Handicrafts and traditional gifts from local artisans, which celebrate India’s heritage, foster community, and encourage appreciation for the arts.
There is no need to spend extravagantly for good Dussehra gifts. A good range is ₹200 to ₹1,000 for pooja essentials, small religious figurines, sweets, or handmade items from local artisans. For festival clothing or practical home décor, any amount between ₹1,500 to ₹5,000 is reasonable. Gold or silver coins and jewelry require careful consideration, so decide on your limit. Silver coins and small pieces are a more affordable option than gold, and prices change daily. Check the current rate before you buy. To budget for the occasion, plan spending for close family and friends, while arranging smaller, thoughtful gifts for friends, colleagues, and neighbours.
Some purchases should be avoided as they can be seen negatively.
Black items and clothing
Sharp objects
Broken, damaged, or second-hand items
Leather goods
Items bought quickly or during a spendthrift phase
Whether you are choosing to buy gold for prosperity or a thoughtful gift for a loved one, these two guides can help with suggestions to elevate the occasion with happiness and good fortune:
Dussehra 2026 Gold Buying Guide: Traditional Gold Jewellery and Coins: Covers jewellery versus coins, purity, hallmarking, making charges, and how to lock in a gold rate ahead of the festival.
Dussehra 2026 Gifting Guide: Gift Box, Hampers, Divine and Heritage Accents: A detailed list covering hampers, festive sweets, brass décor, and fragrance oils from premium brands such as Life Purified, Decor Beats, House of Aroma, The Gift Smith, and Ferns N Petals.
Shop mindfully, organize your budget, think of expressing good wishes, and select with intention. Happy Dussehra!