Why is Shastra Puja performed on Dussehra. Shastra Puja, also known as Astra Puja or Ayudha Puja, is performed on Dussehra to worship weapons, tools and equipment used in daily life. According to the Mahabharata, Lord Rama once performed Shastra Puja before fighting the 10-headed demon Ravana. After winning the battle, the tradition continued across India, with the ritual observed in homes, offices, industries and factories.