Oct 8, 2024
By: Ayush Mehrotra
Mysore Dasara, is one of the grandest celebrations in India. The city transforms into a dazzling display of lights, parades, and cultural performances, culminating in a majestic procession led by a beautifully decorated elephant. The Mysore Palace is illuminated, and events include dance, music, and folk art performances.
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The Kullu Dussehra is a week-long international festival that attracts visitors from across the globe. Celebrated in the Dhalpur Maidan, the festivities include processions of deities, cultural performances, and traditional folk dances. Unlike other places, Kullu Dussehra starts on Vijayadashami and continues for seven days.
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Kota’s Dussehra is renowned for its vibrant fairs, towering effigies of Ravana, and lively cultural events. The Dussehra Mela is a major attraction, featuring local handicrafts, food stalls, and vibrant folk performances. The climax is the dramatic burning of effigies, symbolizing the triumph of Lord Rama over Ravana.
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In Varanasi, the Ramlila performances in the Ramnagar Fort are legendary. This month-long enactment of the Ramayana attracts devotees and tourists. The city comes alive with lights, music, and spiritual fervour, offering a deeply immersive experience that reflects the cultural heritage of India.
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The Dussehra celebrations at the Red Fort grounds in Delhi are iconic, where gigantic effigies of Ravana, Kumbhkaran, and Meghnad are set ablaze amid fireworks and chanting of mantras. The Ramlila performances here, portraying Lord Rama’s victory, are among the most popular in India.
Credit: BCCL
Dussehra in Kolkata coincides with Durga Puja, making it a grand spectacle. The celebration of Vijaya Dashami sees beautiful pandals, artistic idol-making, and cultural programs. The final day is marked by the immersion of Durga idols in the Hooghly River, accompanied by music, dancing, and chanting.
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The Madikeri Dasara, held in Coorg, is a 10-day festival that showcases vibrant folklore, tribal dances, and the iconic procession of cultural tableaux. The town’s unique celebration includes the portrayal of deities and demons by locals in colourful costumes, making it a visually captivating experience.
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Bastar's Dussehra is a 75-day tribal celebration that stands out for its distinctive rituals and tribal customs. This unique version of the festival features offerings to local deities, vibrant dance performances, and the participation of various tribal communities. It’s a blend of traditional spirituality and cultural richness.
Credit: utsav.gov.in