From Mysuru to Kullu to Delhi, best places to celebrate Dussehra in India
Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is an important Hindu festival celebrated with grandeur and ardor in various parts of India. It commemorates the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana and symbolizes the triumph of good over evil.
Below are some of the best places to witness the vibrant Dussehra celebrations in India:
1. Mysuru, Karnataka
Mysuru is renowned for its spectacular Dussehra celebrations. The Mysore Palace is illuminated with thousands of lights, and a grand procession featuring the royal family, caparisoned elephants, and various cultural performances is the highlight of the festival.
The festivities begin with a traditional Chamundeshwari puja, followed by a grand procession.
2. Kullu, Himachal Pradesh
Kullu Dussehra is celebrated with great fervor in the Kullu Valley. It involves processions, cultural programs, and rituals. The week-long festival attracts thousands of visitors.
#WATCH | Himachal Pradesh: Seven-day long International Kullu Dussehra concluded with the traditional ritual of Lanka Dahan on Thursday. Thousands of devotees along with deities participated in the Rath Yatra of Lord Raghunath. pic.twitter.com/ZT1aMBuk41
— ANI (@ANI) October 21, 2021
The festive spirit permeates Kullu, with a big fair held at the Dhalpur Maidan. Visitors relish cultural programs and shop for locally made handicrafts, especially the caps and shawls of Kullu.
Notable rituals during this time include the Rathayatra of Lord Raghunath.
3. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Varanasi celebrates Dussehra with special Ganga Aarti ceremonies and a grand Ram Barat procession. The holy city exudes a festive ambiance during this time.
There is no day like Ganga Dussehra in Varanasi!
— India Imprints (@IndiaImprints) June 12, 2019
As the majestic River Ganga descends to Earth, its dwellers and pilgrims from all over the world welcome her with ostentatious Ganga Arti. #GoddessGanga #festival #tradition #IndiaImprints pic.twitter.com/tYQktzhv6A
4. Delhi
Ramlila performances, depicting episodes from the Ramayana, are conducted at various locations in Delhi, with the one at the Ramlila Maidan being the most renowned.
The festival culminates with the burning of effigies of Ravana, Meghnad, and Kumbhakaran.
5. Kota, Rajasthan
Kota in Rajasthan is known for its Dussehra Mela. Religious functions are held in the royal palace throughout the day. The Dussehra celebrations in Kota are famous for their unique and impressive effigy of Ravana. The city hosts a grand Ravan Dahan event that attracts numerous spectators.
Have you ever witnessed Ravan Dahan? Share your experiences in the comments below.