International Kullu Dussehra: A celebration of religious fervour and culture begins

SHIMLA: Showcasing a rare grandeur of religious fervour and traditions, International Kullu Dussehra started at a heart-warming note at iconic Rath Maidan of Kullu as chariot of Lord Raghunath ji rolled –out in its grace marking beginning of seven day long festival.

Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla inaugurated the festival in presence of Justice Sanjay karol, a judge of Supreme Court—who hails from the state and Congress MP Pratibha Singh and top dignitaries.

The Governor also wished the people of the state on Dussehra and said that this festival symbolises the victory of good over evil. He said that the culture of Himachal Pradesh is very rich and unique, which has a distinct identity across the world.

Kullu dussehra is unique in its way as more than 300 deities and devatas arrive from length and width of the district to join the rath yatra and pay their obeisance to presiding deity ie Lord Raghunath ji.

It is one of the largest and most significant Dussehra celebrations in the world, attracting over lakhs of visitors, including foreigners each year. While the country is doused in colours of celebration, Kullu is famous for its Dussehra festivities.

The legend of this carnival can be traced back to the 17th century. According to the lore, King Jagat Singh, a local king, had installed an idol of deity Lord Raghunath. He installed it on advice of a brahmin to get rid of a curse. Since then, Lord Raghunath was declared as the presiding deity of the valley.

Hence, on the first day of the festival, a beautiful idol of the deity is installed on a decked up chariot. Alongside, other local deities are also taken in procession and people offer their prayers. The main attraction of Kullu Dussehra is the procession of the deities. On the first day of the festival, the deities from several villages in the Kullu Valley converge on the Dhalpur Maidan. The deities are carried in elaborately decorated palanquins, and accompanied by musicians, dancers, and devotees. It is a colourful and vibrant sight to behold.

On the last day of the festival, the deities return to their respective villages.

Before they leave, they participate in a final procession, which is known as the Lugari which is an elaborate feast before deities return to their respective villages.

In addition to the procession of the deities, Kullu Dussehra also features a number of other cultural events, such as folk dances, music, and theatre.