If you are looking for a unique way of celebrating Dussehra then you must visit Kullu. A serene place located in the heart of Himalayas that transforms into a vibrant hub of celebration during the time of October. Yes we know that Kolkata’s Dussehra is more famous than any other place but to change your perspective let us tell you what is special about Dussehra celebration in Kullu.
The Kullu Dussehra festival is a week-long celebration where the idol of Lord Raghunathji is carried in a Chariot with music and dance. Sounds different than others right? With one of the most unique way of celebration, this place attracts visitors from all corners of the world. In fact it is one of the best places to visit in Dussehra with one of the India’s largest Dussehra Mela and International Dussehra Festival.
Why is Kullu Dussehra so Special?
- The first and the most different thing about this festival is unlike other parts of India, where Dussehra is a single day festival, the Kullu Dussehra is celebrated for a week. The festival starts on the tenth day of Navratari or Vijayadashmi and then is continued for next seven days.
- Another thing that you will find different here is the worship of Lord Raghunathji. This entire festival is dedicated to his Honor, so his idol is carried in a grand Yatra during the celebration. It is believed by locals that lord Raghunathji saved the Kullu valley from many problems.
- There is no Ravan dummy burning. Where the whole world celebrates the triumph of good over evil by burning models of Ravan, Meghnath and Kumbhkaran, here the main focus is on the divine worship of Lord.
- The Dussehra celebration in Kullu is also recognized as international festival where thousands of people including international tourists visit to witness this amazing celebration.
The History of Dussehra in Kullu
The story of Kullu Dussehra starts from the early 1600s. The story is about Raja Jagat Singh, who was a wise and powerful king but had a bad luck after he wrongly accused a Brahmin of hiding valuable pearls. The Brahmin killed himself out of fear of being punished and cursed the king that his country would never be at peace.
Worried by this curse, Raja Jagat singh founded a solution from a saint named Baba Kishan Dass who advised him to bring an idol of Lord Raghunathji from Ayodhya to Kullu. After the arrival of idol Raja Jagat Singh installed it on his throne and declared Lord Raghunathji as the true ruler of the Kullu kingdom, placing himself as his humble servant. This act of devotion marked the beginning of Kullu Dussehra as a festival dedicated to Lord Raghunathji.
Rituals and Festivities of Kullu Dussehra
The celebration begins with the arrival of deities that are bought to Kullu to pay homage to Lord Raghunath ji. After this on the first day, the idol of Lord Ragunathji is placed on a beautifully decorated wooden chariot and through the street of Kullu, a Yatra is done by devotees. This Rath Yatra is accompanied by music, dance and drum beating.
From second to fifth day, there morning and evening parades of gods that are organized, Fairs are arranged with different stalls. On the sixth day there is a gathering of Gods and Goddess along with musicians. On the seventh day the chariot of Lord Raghunath ji is taken near River Beas and different rituals are held after which the chariot is taken back to the temple of Lord Raghunathji.
Throughout the seven days of Kullu Dussehra, you will find people performing the traditional dance and performances like Nati, traditional music and Ramayana performances. The final day of Kullu Dussehra is marked by grand farewell Yatra, where all the deities return to their respective villages. While there is burning of Ravan models, there is a symbolic bonfire that signifies the burning of Lanka, the kingdom of Ravan.
How to plan a trip to Dussehra Celebration in Kullu
If you are planning to witness Dussehra in Kullu then here are few things that you need to know –
- Dates -
Kullu Dussehra 2024 will start from October 12 and will end by 18th October so plan your visit accordingly.
- How to reach Kullu?
There are certain ways to reach Kullu, if you plan to go by air then Bhuntar is the nearest airport to Kullu. Other than this the nearest railway station to Kullu is Joginder Nagar after which you can take taxi or bus to reach respective places. If you plan to go by road, then all you have to do is find a Car Rental Service as it is well connected by roads. Self-Drives and buses are also a convenient way to reach Kullu.
- Accommodation - when visiting such place, it is always better to pre -book the place where you will be staying. Here are few budget friendly stays in Kullu –
The Beas view Kullu - House Number 240, Ward, number 11, Gandhi Nagar, Kullu, Himachal Pradesh 175101
Price starting at - ₹1094
Hotel Himalaya - Parla Bhuntar, Bhuntar, Shillihar, Himachal Pradesh 175125
Price starting at - ₹1407
Jasmine – bed and breakfast - Jasmine, Kullu Manali Bypass Rd, Kullu, Kharal, Himachal Pradesh 175101
Price starting at ₹1495
- What to wear – The weather during this festivals can be chilly, especially in evenings. Make sure to pack warm clothes like jackets, sweaters and shawls.
- Even though the best time to visit Himachal is April to June, pre plan an itinerary to visit in October as it is a festive time.
Conclusion
Today, Dussehra celebration in Kullu still continues to be celebrated with the same joy, reverence and grandeur as it was done back then. It is not just a celebration but also a reflection of cultural heritage of this region presenting the strong bond between its people and their deities. Despite the modern influences, Kullu Dussehra still follows the same old rituals which makes it a unique and significant event in the Indian Festival Calendar.
