Mysuru: A Royal Spectacle
Mysuru's world-famous Dasara is a ten-day affair steeped in royal history, celebrating the victory of Goddess Chamundeshwari over the demon Mahishasura. The city transforms into a festive wonderland, with the magnificent Mysore Palace illuminated by thousands
of bulbs, creating a breathtaking sight. The highlight is the 'Jumboo Savari', a grand procession featuring decorated elephants, dance troupes, and music bands making their way through the city. But the celebration is incomplete without savouring its royal culinary legacy. The most iconic sweet is the Mysore Pak, a rich delicacy made from gram flour and ghee that was invented in the palace kitchens. Other must-try festive dishes include 'Obbattu' (a sweet flatbread), 'Chow Chow Bath', and various kinds of 'Payasam' (a milk-based pudding). Food festivals and street stalls pop up across the city, offering a taste of Karnataka's diverse cuisine.
Kullu: A Week-Long Mountain Carnival
Unlike the single-day celebrations in most of India, Kullu Dussehra in Himachal Pradesh is a week-long international folk festival that begins on Vijayadashami. This unique celebration traces its origins to the 17th century and honours Lord Raghunath as the ruling deity of the valley. The festival kicks off with a grand procession where hundreds of village deities are carried on ornate palanquins to the Dhalpur Maidan to pay respects. The atmosphere is electric with folk music, traditional Nati dance performances, and bustling markets selling local handicrafts. The food here is a reflection of Himachali culture. Visitors can savour the 'Dham', a traditional community feast served on leaf plates. Don't miss out on local specialities like 'Siddu' (steamed stuffed bread), 'Chana Madra' (chickpeas in a yoghurt gravy), and freshly caught trout from the Beas river.
Kolkata: The Artistic Heartbeat of Durga Puja
In West Bengal, Vijayadashami marks the culmination of Durga Puja, the region's biggest festival. For five days, Kolkata becomes a living art gallery, with thousands of elaborate temporary structures called 'pandals' housing artistic idols of Goddess Durga. 'Pandal hopping' is the main activity, with locals and tourists alike exploring the creative themes, dazzling light displays, and festive atmosphere. This city-wide celebration, recognised by UNESCO, is also a massive food festival. Street food stalls spring up around every pandal, offering everything from 'phuchka' and 'kathi rolls' to 'jhalmuri'. Community kitchens at the pandals serve 'bhog'—a devotional meal of 'khichuri' and 'labra' (mixed vegetables)—to all visitors. For a true taste of Bengal, indulge in sweets like 'rosogolla' and 'sandesh' as you bid farewell to the Goddess on the final day.
Delhi: Ramlila and Street Food Extravaganza
In the nation's capital, Dussehra celebrations are synonymous with Ramlila—dramatic folk reenactments of the Ramayana. For several nights leading up to Dussehra, grounds across the city host these performances, drawing large crowds. The most famous ones are held at the historic Ramlila Maidan and near the Red Fort. The festivities culminate with 'Ravan Dahan', the burning of colossal effigies of the demon king Ravana, his brother, and his son, symbolising the victory of good over evil. These fairgrounds, or 'melas', are a paradise for food lovers. Stalls serve a delightful variety of North Indian street food, including chaat, aloo tikki, and hot jalebis. It's the perfect way to combine theatrical tradition with a satisfying culinary experience under the festive lights of the city.
