Dussehra, also called Vijay Dashmi, is one of the most popular Hindu festivals in the India celebrated to honor the victory of Hindu God Lord Rama over the ten-headed demon Ravana. However, some Indians celebrate Dussehra to mark the Goddess Durga’s triumph over Mahishasura, a buffalo demon. Thus, the festival symbolizes the victory of good over evil. Dussehra usually falls in September or October month. Different Indian states commemorate Dussehra in different ways with a lots of joy. Here is a list of some of the best places to watch Dussehra celebrations in India.
1. Kullu, Himachal Pradesh:
Dussehra celebrations begin from 10th day of the Navratri festival in Kullu town situated in the Himachal Pradesh and it continues for a week. There are around 250 deities from neighboring villages brought to the Dhalpur ground on the last day where they meet the main god of the Kullu Lord Raghunath. After that, the procession is led to the Beas river where a heap of woods is burnt signifying the burning of Ravan’s Lanka. You will get a chance to see the local dance and culture during the festival.
2. Mysore, Karnataka:
In Mysore, Dussehra is known by the other name called Dasara, a royal fair. The festival is celebrated for 10 days in the city with a great pomp and show. The Mysore Palace is adorned with many lights adding the charm to the celebration. The royal procession, also called Jumbo Safari, features beautifully decorated elephants, out of which, one elephant carry the idol of Mysore’s Goddess Chamundeshwari in a golden canopy on its head. Jumbo Safari starts from the palace and ends at the Bannimantap. Apart from elephants, the procession also includes dance performances, horses ans musical bands, so don’t miss it.
3. Kota, Rajasthan:
Dussehra is commemorated in the Kota city of Rajasthan on a grand scale. Here, over 75-feet tall effigies of Ravana and his brothers Meghnad and Kumbhakarana are filled with crackers and set on fire on the last day of the festival. The visitors get mesmerized with the cultural performances given by the artisans, who come from various places, especially to take part in Dussehra celebrations. Don’t forget to taste the delicious Rajasthani food and explore amazing Rajasthani handicrafts.
4. Bastar, Chattisgarh:
Do you want to experience Tribal Dussehra? Just like that of Kullu Dussehra, all deities from surrounding towns and tribes unified at the Danteswari temple located in Jalgdalpur, Bastar. Dedicated to goddess Danteshwari, the festival continues for 75 days and is often considered as the world’s longest festival. You will find many interesting things here like a double-decker heavy chariot run by over 400 people, a girl swinging comfortably on a bed of thorns, tribal folks in their traditional attires etc, thus must watch Dussehra festivities in Bastar district of Chattisgarh.
5. Delhi:
Delhi, the capital of India, is known for its highly entertaining Ramlila, the show depicting the life journey of Lord Rama including how he killed demon Ravana. There are about 1000 Ramlila shows held in Delhi but the most popular ones are at the Red Fort grounds and the Ramilila Maidan. Similar to Kota, the effigies of Ravan and his brothers are burnt on the last day of the show. Apart from this, there are also food stalls where you can enjoy tasty local food.
So, must visit any of these places during Dussehra and gather some memorable experiences.
