On October 12, India celebrated Dussehra, a festival symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. It was observed with grandeur across the country, marked by various traditions that reflect the rich cultural diversity of India.
Among the numerous celebrations, the Dussehra event in Kullu, Himachal Pradesh, stands out as one of the most iconic and unique festivals. Known as the "International Dussehra," this event not only attracts people from all parts of the country but also draws tourists from around the globe.
The festival begins on October 13 and carries on for a week, offering a blend of religious devotion, cultural activities, and historical significance. Let’s delve into the fascinating details of how this distinctive Dussehra is organized and celebrated.
The Grand Beginning: Rath Yatra of Lord Raghunath
Unlike the Dussehra celebrations in other parts of India, where the effigy of Ravana is burnt to signify the victory of Lord Rama, Kullu Dussehra begins with a grand Rath Yatra (chariot procession). This procession is dedicated to Lord Raghunath, a form of Lord Rama, and marks the commencement of the week-long festival.
On the day of Vijay Dashami, the chariot carrying the idol of Lord Raghunath is pulled by devotees through the streets of Kullu, accompanied by more than 300 local deities and goddesses. The tradition of this Rath Yatra dates back over 350 years and forms the heart of Kullu’s Dussehra celebrations.
The Legend Behind Kullu Dussehra
The origins of Kullu Dussehra are steeped in mythology and history, tracing back to the reign of King Jagat Singh in the 17th century. According to legend, a poor Brahmin from Tippri village in the Manikaran Valley was wronged by the king, leading to a tragic misunderstanding. The Brahmin, devastated by the events, took his own life. King Jagat Singh was said to be stricken by a curse following the Brahmin's death, which manifested as an incurable disease.
In search of a remedy, the king sought guidance from a wise sage who advised him to bring the idols of Lord Ram, Sita, and Hanuman from the Tretanath temple in Ayodhya. The sage instructed that if the king dedicated his entire kingdom to Lord Raghunath, he would be absolved of his sin and freed from the curse.
Acting on this advice, the king retrieved the idols and installed them in the Manikaran temple in 1653. Seven years later, in 1660, the idols were ceremoniously moved to the Raghunath temple in Kullu, marking the start of the annual Dussehra celebrations in honor of Lord Raghunath. The king’s health was restored, and since then, Kullu has continued to celebrate Dussehra with deep reverence and devotion to Lord Raghunath.
A Showcase of Cultural Diversity
Kullu Dussehra is renowned not only for its religious significance but also for the cultural spectacle it offers. The festival begins with the arrival of the revered deity, Mata Hadimba, and the celebrations continue for a week. During this period, the town of Kullu becomes a vibrant hub of cultural performances and activities.
Folk dance troupes from various Indian states, as well as international cultural groups, participate in the festivities, showcasing their unique traditions and performances. The fusion of local and international art forms creates a mesmerizing atmosphere, drawing crowds from across India and abroad.
This cultural extravaganza is an integral part of the festival, reflecting the unity in diversity that India is known for. Visitors are treated to a series of traditional music and dance performances, with artists dressed in colorful costumes presenting folk dances that depict local legends, rituals, and customs. The energy of the performances, combined with the devotion of the people, creates an unforgettable experience for all attendees.
A Celebration Like No Other
Kullu Dussehra is a festival that goes beyond the typical Dussehra celebrations observed in other parts of India. It is not just about the destruction of evil but is also a tribute to Lord Raghunath, the presiding deity of Kullu. The festival offers a window into the rich cultural heritage of Himachal Pradesh and presents a unique blend of devotion, history, and celebration. With its grand Rath Yatra, fascinating folklore, and cultural diversity, Kullu Dussehra continues to captivate visitors from around the world, making it an international event worth experiencing.