Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is one of the most celebrated festivals in India, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. It marks the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana, as well as the conclusion of the nine-day Navratri festival, which honors Goddess Durga’s victory over Mahishasura. This vibrant festival is celebrated with diverse customs, festivities, and fervor across the country, each region adding its own unique flavor to the celebration. Let’s explore some of the top Dussehra celebrations in India that capture the spirit of this grand festival.
1. Kullu Dussehra (Himachal Pradesh)
The Kullu Dussehra, celebrated in the picturesque valley of Kullu in Himachal Pradesh, is among the most famous Dussehra celebrations in India. Unlike other parts of the country, where effigies of Ravana are burned, the Kullu Dussehra focuses on the congregation of hundreds of deities from nearby villages. The deities are carried in grand processions to the Dhalpur Maidan, where they stay for a week. The festival is marked by cultural performances, fairs, and folk dances, attracting thousands of tourists and devotees.
2. Mysore Dussehra (Karnataka)
The Mysore Dussehra is a regal celebration that dates back to over 400 years, starting from the time of the Wadiyar dynasty. The Mysore Palace is lit up with thousands of lights during this time, making it a sight to behold. The highlight of the celebration is the grand procession, or Jumbo Savari, where the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari is carried on a beautifully adorned elephant. The procession is accompanied by traditional dancers, musicians, and horses. The entire city comes alive with cultural programs, wrestling matches, and fairs.
3. Ramlila in Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh)
Varanasi, the spiritual heart of India, hosts one of the most renowned and elaborate Ramlila performances during Dussehra. The city has been staging Ramlila for over two centuries. Here, the enactment of the Ramayana starts weeks before Dussehra, with actors playing the roles of Rama, Sita, and Ravana. The performances culminate in the dramatic burning of effigies of Ravana, Meghnad, and Kumbhkaran on Dussehra night. The vibrant display of costumes, dialogues, and devotion makes it a must-experience event.
4. Delhi’s Ramlila Grounds
The Ramlila Maidan in Delhi is famous for its large-scale Dussehra celebrations, where giant effigies of Ravana, Meghnad, and Kumbhkaran are burned to symbolize the victory of good over evil. Many prominent leaders, including the President and Prime Minister of India, participate in the festivities. The Ramlila performances in Delhi are elaborate and attract thousands of spectators every year. These performances are often followed by fireworks and cultural programs, turning the entire city into a carnival.
5. Kota Dussehra (Rajasthan)
Known for its grandeur, the Kota Dussehra in Rajasthan is a blend of Rajasthani culture, tradition, and religious fervor. The celebration includes a massive fair that attracts people from neighboring states. The effigies of Ravana, Meghnad, and Kumbhkaran are burnt amidst a dazzling display of fireworks. What sets the Kota Dussehra apart is the massive gathering of artists, musicians, and craftsmen who display their talents, creating a rich cultural experience for attendees.
6. Barara Dussehra (Haryana)
Barara in Haryana holds a record for burning one of the tallest effigies of Ravana in India. The effigy here stands more than 200 feet tall, making it a spectacular visual treat for visitors. The Dussehra celebrations in Barara include a grand fair, cultural performances, and religious rituals. The towering effigy is the centerpiece of the event, symbolizing the defeat of Ravana and the victory of righteousness.
7. Bastar Dussehra (Chhattisgarh)
Bastar Dussehra is unique as it lasts for 75 days, making it one of the longest Dussehra celebrations in India. The festival is deeply rooted in tribal traditions and rituals, with a focus on honoring the local deities rather than Lord Rama. The celebration includes unique rituals such as the Rath Yatra, where tribal priests carry the goddess in chariots around the city. The cultural programs, tribal dances, and traditional music make this celebration a fascinating blend of spirituality and cultural heritage.
8. Durga Puja and Dussehra in Kolkata (West Bengal)
In West Bengal, Dussehra is celebrated as Durga Puja, with great enthusiasm and devotion. The last day of the Durga Puja festival, known as Vijaya Dashami, coincides with Dussehra, and marks the immersion of Goddess Durga’s idols in water. The city of Kolkata is adorned with stunning pandals (temporary temples), each showcasing intricate artistry and themes. The festivities include traditional dances, feasts, and the famous Sindoor Khela, where married women smear vermillion on each other.
9. Ahmedabad’s Dussehra (Gujarat)
In Gujarat, Dussehra is celebrated with Navratri, where the nine nights leading up to Dussehra are filled with the energetic Garba and Dandiya Raas dances. Ahmedabad, the heart of these celebrations, becomes a hub of music, dance, and cultural performances. On Dussehra, effigies of Ravana are burned, and people participate in processions and prayers. The unique blend of dance, music, and devotion during this time makes Gujarat’s Dussehra celebration a vibrant affair.
10. Madikeri Dussehra (Karnataka)
The quiet town of Madikeri in Coorg comes alive during Dussehra with its unique blend of religious and cultural celebrations. The festival begins with a night procession known as Kari Polud, where idols of deities are carried around the town, accompanied by traditional music and dances. The festival is marked by its colorful tableaux, traditional folk performances, and rituals, making it an integral part of the cultural fabric of Coorg.
Conclusion
Dussehra, with its rich cultural diversity, is celebrated across India with unique customs and festivities. From the grand processions of Mysore to the dramatic Ramlilas of Varanasi, each region offers a glimpse into the different ways in which this festival of victory and righteousness is honored. Whether you’re a traveler or a local, witnessing these Dussehra celebrations is a deep dive into India’s vibrant traditions, spirituality, and heritage.