The Royal Spectacle of Mysuru
Nowhere is Dussehra, or 'Dasara', celebrated with more regal pomp than in Mysuru, where the traditions date back to the 17th century. For ten days, the city transforms, culminating in the grand 'Jumboo Savari' on Vijayadashami. The highlight is a majestic
procession where an elephant carries a 750-kg golden howdah bearing the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari. The entire Mysore Palace is illuminated by nearly 100,000 bulbs, creating a breathtaking sight. The festivities, which attract visitors from across the globe, also include a torchlight parade, cultural programmes, and a vibrant exhibition, preserving a rich royal heritage.
The Divine Assembly in Kullu
While most of India concludes its celebrations on Vijayadashami, in Kullu, it marks the beginning of a week-long international festival. The celebration is unique as it is not centred around the burning of Ravana's effigy. Instead, it revolves around a grand congregation of over 200 local deities, who are carried on ornate palanquins to the Dhalpur Maidan to pay obeisance to Lord Raghunath, the presiding deity of the valley. The festival begins with the Rath Yatra of Lord Raghunath's idol, pulled by devotees. The week is filled with traditional Nati dances, folk music, and a bustling fair, offering a deep dive into Himachali culture.
The Artistic Grandeur of Kolkata
In Kolkata, Vijayadashami is the culmination of the five-day Durga Puja, a festival so significant it's on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list. The city turns into a massive open-air art gallery, with thousands of creatively themed 'pandals' (temporary shrines). The final day is marked by heartfelt rituals. Married women participate in 'Sindoor Khela', smearing each other with vermillion powder before bidding farewell to the goddess. This is followed by grand processions leading to the Hooghly river for the 'Visarjan' or immersion of the magnificent Durga idols, a poignant and spectacular end to the festivities.
The Ancient Tribal Rites of Bastar
Perhaps the most distinct Dussehra celebration takes place in Bastar, Chhattisgarh. This festival, lasting an astonishing 75 days, is considered one of the longest in the world. It has no connection to the Ramayana legend; instead, it is a tribal festival dedicated to Devi Danteshwari, the region's presiding goddess. Rooted in 600 years of history, the celebrations involve unique rituals performed by various tribal communities, such as the construction of a massive wooden chariot and a gathering of local deities. The event showcases the deep connection between nature, spirituality, and tribal traditions, offering a completely different perspective on the festival.
