Shastra Puja traditions and timings for Dussehra 2026

Shastra Puja, the traditional worship of weapons and tools, is observed during the Dussehra and Vijayadashami festivals in 2026. The observance carries significant religious weight, symbolizing the fight against injustice and the protection of righteousness.

According to religious traditions, the practice is linked to the goddess Durga’s battle against the demon Mahishasura. Another significant legend from the Mahabharata era suggests that the Pandavas retrieved and worshipped their weapons from a Shami tree after completing their period of exile on the day of Vijayadashami.

In 2026, the Dashami Tithi begins on October 20 at 12:50 PM and continues until October 21 at 2:11 PM. Auspicious timings for Shastra Puja include a Vijay Muhurat on October 20 from 1:59 PM to 2:45 PM, and specific windows on October 21, including a period from 1:14 PM to 3:30 PM.