It’s not all about Ram; there are many diverse ways that Dussehra is celebrated across the country. How many of these unique festivals have you seen?
Jagdalpur
Bastar Dussehra, also known as Jagdalpur Dussehra, is one of the most vibrant celebrations in the country. Centered in the state of Chhattisgarh, this 75-day-long festival (often called the longest festival in the world) is believed to have started in the 13th century,
At the center is a massive and beautifully decorated chariot that is pulled through the streets by as many as 400 people. The last 10 days of the festival are the most spectacular, ending on the day of Dussehra.
Kolkata
In Kolkata (or wherever Durga Puja is celebrated), Dussehra is known as Vijaya Dashami. It marks the final day of Durga Puja when the idols of Goddess Durga and her four children are taken to the river for immersion.
Of the many rituals observed on this day, the most popular is the one where married women offer vermillion and sweets to the goddess, and then smear each other with the vermillion.
Kota
Kota in Rajasthan is known for its Dussehra Mela. On the day of Dussehra, religious functions are held in the royal palace in the morning. Then the king and other members of the royal family travel in a colorful procession to the fairground.
The Kota municipality organizes a cultural program too. You can browse through local handicrafts and sample local cuisine at the fair.
Kullu
Kullu Dussehra is the renowned International Mega Dussehra festival observed in the month of October in the Himachal Pradesh state in northern India. Wherein more than 4-5 lakh people visit the fair from all across the Globe. It is celebrated in the Dhalpur maidan in the Kullu valley.
Kullu town is immersed in festive cheer and a big fair is held at the Dhalpur Maidan. Enjoy the cultural programs and shop for locally made handicrafts, especially the signature caps and shawls. It is best to book accommodation in advance as Kullu Dussehra draws a large number of visitors from home and abroad.
Mysore
Dasara is a 10-day festival in the region culminating on Vijayadashami or the tenth day. The day marks the successful conclusion of the preceding nine days. Vijayadashami is also a day of victory for the King and his subjects, be it in a battle or in day-to-day governance. The preceding nine days of Navarathri have celebrations starting only after six days.
The festival has special meanings for different people. In some parts of India, it is celebrated as the end of their 9-days fasting while in some parts; huge celebrations take place on this occasion