# Millions mark Dussehra across India

> Hindus celebrate the festival of good over evil with processions, prayers and the burning of giant effigies.
- Title: Millions mark Dussehra across India · BBC News | Shortify
- Summary: Hindus celebrate the festival of good over evil with processions, prayers and the burning of giant effigies. Millions of people across India are celebrating…
- Keywords: dussehra, hindu festival, india, lord ram, ravan, durga puja, ramlila, news, world, Millions, mark, across
- Source: BBC News — https://bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c98rzynj6e1yo
- Published: 2026-10-19T23:04:08.942+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: dussehra, hindu festival, india, lord ram, ravan, durga puja, ramlila, news, world
## Millions celebrate good over evil
Millions of people across India are marking Dussehra, one of the country's most widely celebrated Hindu festivals, with processions, prayers and the ceremonial burning of giant effigies to symbolise the triumph of good over evil.
## Lord Ram's victory over Ravan
The festival commonly marks the deity Lord Ram's victory over the mythological ten-headed king Ravan.
## Ramlila performances in northern India
In the days leading up to Dussehra in northern India, performers wear elaborate costumes and make-up to stage Ramlila, the dramatic retelling of the ancient Hindu epic Ramayana.
## Burning effigies and carnival atmosphere
The final act of Ramlila is followed by the ritualistic burning of the effigies of Ravan, his brother Kumbhkaran, and son Meghnath.
## Durga Puja in eastern India
In the east and some other parts, as well as among Hindus in Bangladesh, the festival sees devotees worshipping the divine feminine power with Durga Puja celebrations.
## Diwali preparations begin
Dussehra marks the beginning of preparations for Diwali, the festival of lights, which is held twenty days later.
## Key takeaway

Millions of people across India are celebrating Dussehra, a major Hindu festival marking the triumph of good over evil through processions, prayers and the ceremonial burning of effigies.