Kullu Dussehra represents a significant cultural and religious festival celebrated in the Kullu Valley of Himachal Pradesh, India. This weeklong celebration, renowned for its vibrant representation of local traditions and festivities, occurs after the Dussehra celebrations elsewhere in the country, typically commencing in the month of October. Its uniqueness lies in the manner it intertwines with local beliefs, showcasing the rich heritage of the region.
Historically, Kullu Dussehra has been observed for centuries and is rooted in the region’s distinct spiritual narratives. Unlike many other Dussehra festivals, which primarily emphasize the triumph of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana, Kullu Dussehra highlights the worship of the local deities, particularly the revered Hadimba and other village gods. This characteristic makes the international Kullu festival a unique platform where local customs are displayed with fervor, attracting not only locals but also tourists from across the globe.
The festival culminates in a grand procession of deities, marked by vibrant attire and traditional music, encapsulating the essence of the valley’s cultural identity. The festivities include a multitude of cultural performances, showcasing folk dances and music that speak to the traditions of the Kullu region. Additionally, the communal aspect of Kullu Dussehra allows families and neighbors to come together in celebration, further strengthening social bonds across the valley.
This weeklong Kullu Dussehra festival is not only a time for religious observance but also serves as an opportunity for cultural exchange, showcasing the valley’s rich heritage and traditions to visitors. From the bustling markets to the mesmerizing performances, Kullu Dussehra stands out as a unique interpretation of the broader Dussehra celebrations seen throughout the country.
Invitations to Deities: A Spiritual Gathering
Every year, the Kullu Dussehra, a hallmark of the international Kullu festival, showcases a unique practice that underscores the spiritual dimension of this vibrant celebration. A significant aspect of the festivities involves the Kullu administration sending formal invitations to over 330 deities from the surrounding villages, drawing a wide array of divine entities into a collective religious gathering. This traditional act highlights the profound cultural reverence held by the local populace towards these deities, who are viewed as protectors and harbingers of community welfare.
The arrival of these invited deities is marked by an impressive procession, featuring nearly 250 – 290 palanquins that traverse the beautiful landscape of Kullu Valley. Each palanquin is ornately decorated, emphasizing the importance of the deity it carries. This deliberate engagement by both the earthly and divine realms during the weeklong Kullu Dussehra showcases the notable community spirit and cultural cohesion prevalent among the residents. The deities’ participation fosters a sense of spiritual unity that resonates through the celebration, bridging the gap between the material and the spiritual world.
Moreover, the Kullu Dussehra is not just a mere festival; it serves as a significant reminder of the traditional and religious values shared within the community. The way that these deities are welcomed and honored reaffirms the inhabitants’ connection with their culture and history, making the event an integral part of their identity. Ultimately, the invitations extended to the deities serve to reinforce a deep-rooted cultural ethos that celebrates devotion, reverence, and a shared sense of purpose, emblematic of the wider significance of Dussehra within the region’s spiritual landscape.
The Chariot of Lord Raghunath: A Symbol of Reverence
The ceremonial rolling out of Lord Raghunath’s chariot during the Kullu Dussehra is a pivotal event that encapsulates the spiritual essence of this weeklong Kullu festival. As the sun rises over the picturesque valley, devotees from various regions gather at the rath ground, eager to participate in the grand procession. The chariot, decorated with vibrant flowers and intricate designs, reflects the devotion of the local populace and serves as a symbol of the divine.
The event holds special significance, as it is not just a means of paying homage to Lord Raghunath, but also a representation of unity among the diverse Hindu communities that inhabit the region. Each year, approximately 200 deities, accompanied by their ritualistic idols, assemble to participate in this auspicious occasion. This congregation of deities from different temples in the Kullu valley emphasizes the inclusivity and rich cultural heritage that the Kullu Dussehra represents. The presence of these divine figures signifies their collective blessings, adding to the sanctity of the festival.
This ceremonial act not only marks the commencement of the festivities but also illustrates the deep-rooted faith that the people of Kullu have in their deities. Emblematic of the region’s rich heritage, the rolling out of Lord Raghunath’s chariot is more than just a ritual; it serves as a reminder of the community’s unwavering belief in the divine and their commitment to preserving this cultural legacy. As the festival unfolds, the collective homage paid to Lord Raghunath strengthens the spiritual connection among the people and their revered deities.
The Seven Days of Kullu Dussehra Celebrations
The weeklong Kullu Dussehra is a vibrant manifestation of local culture, deeply rooted in tradition and communal participation. Each day of the celebrations is dedicated to specific rituals, activities, and the participation of deities from surrounding villages who congregate in the picturesque town of Dhalpur. The atmosphere during this international Kullu festival is electrifying, drawing visitors and devotees from far and wide, all eager to witness this cultural extravaganza.
Day one often marks the arrival of the local deities, who are brought to temporary camps set up in Dhalpur. These camps serve as a meeting point for the numerous deities and their respective devotees. As priests and volunteers prepare the grounds, local families engage in elaborate decorations, reflecting their reverence and joy. On the following days, various rituals such as the traditional offerings to the deities take place, showcasing local customs and practices.
One of the key highlights of the Kullu Dussehra is the cultural processions that occur daily. These vibrant parades feature elaborately decorated chariots and folk performances, including traditional dances and music that enthrall onlookers and elevate the festive spirit. The engagement of local communities is palpable as men, women, and children participate wholeheartedly, embodying the essence of Dussehra as a collective celebration of faith and culture.
As the week progresses, different sets of rituals are performed, reflecting the unique practices of the various participating villages. Each evening culminates in an atmosphere of excitement and jubilation, leading up to the grand finale. This culminative day of the international Kullu festival is marked by a ceremonial burning of effigies, signifying the triumph of good over evil and reinforcing the festival’s spiritual significance. The culmination of these weeklong celebrations highlights the rich cultural tapestry that Dussehra represents for the Kullu valley.
Palanquins and the On-Foot Yatra
The Kullu Dussehra is not merely a festival; it is a vibrant tapestry of customs, beliefs, and spiritual journeys, deeply rooted in the rich culture of the Kullu Valley. One of the most awe-inspiring aspects of this weeklong Kullu Dussehra celebration is the remarkable procession of palanquins, or “palkis,” which carry the various deities revered in the region. Devotees from across the valley undertake an arduous on-foot yatra, transporting these sacred symbols to the Dhalpur ground, an event that showcases their devotion and reverence.
The journey of the palanquins is laden with significance, reflecting both religious fervor and communal unity. Each palanquin represents a particular deity, embodying the cultural heritage of the Kullu Valley. The on-foot yatra involves devotees walking long distances, often over challenging terrain, all while performing rituals and chanting hymns to honor their deities. This pilgrimage, coupled with the elaborate procession, turns the Kullu Dussehra into a grand international Kullu festival, attracting visitors who come to witness the significance of this event firsthand.
Significantly, the effort taken by the devotees to bring these palanquins is seen as a labor of love. Each step they take symbolizes their unwavering faith, while also maintaining traditional practices that have been passed down through generations. Moreover, this commitment serves to strengthen community ties, as families and friends join together to support one another through the challenges faced en route to Dhalpur. The collective spirit of the Kullu Dussehra is beautifully encapsulated in this pilgrimage, illustrating both the personal and social dimensions of the festival.
Cultural Extravaganza: Shops and Folk Competitions in Kullu Dussehra
The Kullu Dussehra festival, renowned for its grandeur and cultural significance, transforms the Dhalpur grounds into a vibrant marketplace, drawing traders and artisans from across the country. This weeklong Kullu Dussehra celebration is not merely a religious observance; it serves as a platform for commerce, creativity, and cultural exchange. Stalls brimming with locally produced handicrafts, traditional clothing, and intricate jewelry reflect the rich artisanal heritage of the region. For festival-goers, the shopping experience is both enriching and diverse, offering an array of products that showcase the unique characteristics of Kullu’s culture. From handmade woolens to exquisite wooden carvings, each purchase is a testament to the creativity and talent of Indian artisans.
In addition to the shopping frenzy, the International Kullu Festival also features captivating folk dance competitions held at the Lal Chand Prarthi Kala Kendra. These competitions attract performers from different parts of India and abroad, showcasing a variety of traditional dances that represent the local and international folkloric traditions. The vibrancy of these performances adds a unique flair to the Dussehra festivities, as dancers don colorful costumes and perform intricate routines, enthralling the audience. The sense of camaraderie and competition in the air highlights the festival’s role as a cultural melting pot, fostering connections among diverse artistic expressions.
The combination of bustling shops and engaging folk competitions epitomizes the Kullu Dussehra festival’s spirit, making it a cultural extravaganza that is not to be missed. Visitors are encouraged to embrace the essence of this grand celebration by participating in the various events, enjoying the lively atmosphere at Dhalpur grounds, and witnessing the talents showcased during the international folk dance competitions. Ultimately, the Kullu Dussehra festival is a harmonious blend of commerce and culture, a testament to the region’s vibrant heritage that resonates with both locals and international visitors alike.
Dhalpur: The Hub of Religious Worship in Kullu Dussehra
During the illustrious Kullu Dussehra, Dhalpur emerges as the epicenter of religious activities, showcasing a unique confluence of spirituality and cultural heritage. This weeklong Kullu Dussehra festival sees an influx of deities from various temples across the Kullu Valley, accompanied by a multitude of devotees and pilgrims. The ambiance is charged with devotion as the presence of these deities is not merely symbolic but an integral part of the ritualistic practices observed during this significant festival.
The transformation of Dhalpur during Dussehra is nothing short of magical. Streets become alive with colorful processions, and the traditional attire of participants adds to the festive spirit. The gathering attracts not only local devotees but also tourists and researchers fascinated by the rich cultural tapestry woven through these practices. The lively atmosphere resonates with hymns and chants, creating a spiritual resonance that captivates all who partake in this grand celebration.
Each year, the international Kullu festival draws attention from across the globe, providing an opportunity for individuals to witness firsthand the blend of culture and devotion that defines Dhalpur. Visitors can explore the various stalls showcasing handicrafts and local delicacies, further enriching their experience. This aspect of Kullu Dussehra fosters a sense of community and belonging among participants, reinforcing the cultural significance of this event.
The pivotal role of Dhalpur as a focal point of worship during Dussehra is evident, as it brings together diverse groups and traditions, celebrating not only the triumph of good over evil but also the shared cultural values of humanity. As Dhalpur continues to host these vibrant celebrations, it nurtures a deeper understanding of the traditions surrounding the Kullu Dussehra festival, making it a vital part of the region’s identity.
Historical Significance of Kullu Dussehra
The Kullu Dussehra festival holds profound historical significance, marking a unique blend of tradition, culture, and devotion. The origins of this vibrant event can be traced back to the establishment of the idol of Lord Raghunath in Kullu in the year 1651. Legend has it that the idol was enshrined after a local ruler sought divine intervention to end a prolonged drought. This act paved the way for the inception of a festival that would celebrate the virtues of justice, virtue, and divine blessings.
By 1660, the festival evolved into a significant annual gathering, effectively becoming the centerpiece of the Kullu culture. Dussehra, usually celebrated across many regions of India, takes on a distinctive character in Kullu. The rituals and activities performed during the weeklong Kullu Dussehra are steeped in tradition, representing not only the local people’s reverence for their deities but also their rich heritage. Each year, this festival witnesses the participation of numerous deities from various regions, congregating in the Kullu valley. Such melange enhances the cultural tapestry of the area and emphasizes the communal aspects of the celebrations.
Over the centuries, Kullu Dussehra has maintained its significance among the local populace, as traditions have transitioned seamlessly from one generation to another. The customs that surround this international Kullu festival are intrinsically linked to the lifestyle and beliefs of the residents. The festival serves not only as a time for worship but also as an opportunity for social bonding and cultural exchanges, thereby reinforcing community ties. As such, Kullu Dussehra remains a vibrant testimony to the perseverance of ancient traditions in a rapidly changing world.
International Recognition of Kullu Dussehra
The Kullu Dussehra festival, a remarkable celebration held annually in the picturesque Kullu Valley of Himachal Pradesh, India, was officially recognized internationally in 1972. This designation not only highlighted the significance of Kullu Dussehra as a pivotal cultural event but also transformed it into a global attraction that resonates with people from various backgrounds. The decision to grant international recognition to Kullu Dussehra resulted from its rich cultural heritage, showcasing traditional rituals, folk music, and vibrant performances that draw visitors worldwide.
Following this recognition, Kullu Dussehra has seen a substantial influx of tourists, enhancing the local economy and encouraging cultural exchange. As the festival attracts visitors from diverse parts of the world, it facilitates an understanding of the unique traditions that define the Kullu Valley. Tourists are offered the opportunity to experience the weeklong Kullu Dussehra celebrations, which include grand processions, the presence of various deities, and local handicrafts, creating a bridge between cultures.
The international status of Kullu Dussehra has also led to greater efforts in promoting and preserving the distinctive aspects of Kullu’s heritage. This promotion informs travelers about the religious significance of Dussehra, as it symbolizes the victory of good over evil. Additionally, initiatives aimed at showcasing local artisans and their crafts have gained momentum, leading to a revival of traditional art forms intertwined with the spirit of Kullu Dussehra. Such advancements not only keep the cultural essence alive but also create a sustainable tourism model that respects the region’s identity.
Through the lens of international recognition, Kullu Dussehra stands as a testament to the power of festivals in fostering cultural diplomacy, making it a resonant emblem of unity within diversity. This ongoing celebration reflects not only the local traditions but also the vibrant interplay of cultural exchanges witnessed during this grand event.
Weeklong Kullu Dussehra begins with rath yatra
October 15, 2021
As Covid-19 pandemic had dampened festivity across the country, a weeklong historic Dussehra has begun in Kullu on Friday after rolling out of the chariot of Lord Raghunath at Dhalpur Dussehra ground.
More than 200 palanquins of deities along with thousands of followers are taking part in the historic festival. The Dussehra committee, however, had sent invitations to 332 deities through SDMs and tehsildars. The deities first paid their obeisance to Lord Raghunath, presiding deity of the festivity, and performed the important rituals besides taking part in the rath yatra. A huge crowd of devotees including tourists thronged Kullu to witness this century old cultural and religious festival. Everyone in the crowd was trying to pull the chariot as even just touching the ropes of chariot is considered auspicious.
The rituals of the festivities start from royal palace of Kullu where the royal family dressed in traditional royal attire performs the rituals and idol of Lord Raghunath is brought to Rath ground for Rath Yatra. Although commercial activities are not allowed in Dussehra this year, thousands of people thronged Dhalpur Dussehra ground to witness “dev maha-kumbh”.
To prevent Covid-19 from spreading, Kullu administration has adopted some strict steps. Be it priest, kardar or followers of the deities, everyone is asked to get final vaccination done before entering Dussehra ground. Visitors from other states are also not being allowed unless they produce final vaccination certificate or a negative RT-PCR report.
The entire Kullu valley will be echoing with the divine music of drums and trumpets for seven days and all the deities will camp here till October 21. Last year Rath yatra was held in presence of only eight deities due to pandemic. This year all the deities were invited following the demand from residents of Kullu. This year there was no difference in crowd. Police were struggling to manage the crowd. As per tradition, palanquins of Hidimba Devi and Bijli Mahadev scattered the crowd and made way for chariot. The chariot was pulled from Rath ground to lower ground where it will rest for six days. On seventh day the chariot will be wheeled to bank of Beas river to perform final rituals and then will be brought back to Rath ground.
While Dussehra concluded in rest parts of the country after burning effigies of Ravana, Kumbhakarna and Meghnath on Vijayadashmi, it has started in Kullu from Frinday. The festivity is celebrated after all the deities of Kullu congregate at one place. This is what makes it unique.
Unlike other parts of the country, effigies are not burnt in Kullu Dussehra. Dussehra, which conveys message of victory of good over evil, is marked in Kullu by gathering of deities, their prayers, processions and religious ceremonies. Thousands of tourists and research scholars from across the world also throng Kullu to witness unique blend of culture, tradition, religion and folk art. However, very few tourists were seen this year.
Thousands of traders from many states also used to do brisk business here for a month till Diwali but this year commercial activities are not allowed to avoid crowding of Dussehra ground. Also, international folk dance competitions and other programmes will not be held.
Himachal Pradesh governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar inaugurated the Dussehra festivity by lighting the diyas. He said Kullu has set an example by preserving the century-old traditions.
Kullu deputy commissioner Ashutosh Garg said all preparations have been made for smooth conduct of the festivity. “Nakas have been laid on all entry points to the Dussehra ground to ensure people have received both the doses or they are carrying a negative RT-PCR report. Invitations were sent to 332 deities and majority of them have reached. Three Covid-19 vaccination kiosks have been set up by health department at Dussehra venue. People having symptoms like cold and cough are requested not to visit Dussehra,” he said.
Kullu SP Gurdev Sharma said 500 police and 50 home guard personnel have been deployed to ensure law and order at Dussehra. “Dussehra venue has been divided into five sectors. Quick response teams and anti-riot teams have also been deployed. CCTV cameras have been established at major places. A traffic plan is also in place,” he said.
According to historians, the idol of Lord Raghunath was brought to Kullu from Ayodhya in 1651 when Raja Jagat Singh was the ruler of Kullu state. Dussehra celebrations in Kullu started after 1660 when the Raja invited all deities before Lord Raghunath. The people here are still following the same custom. Kullu Dussehra was declared an international festival in 1972.
Weeklong Kullu Dussehra begins with rath yatra of Lord Raghunath
October 25, 2020
While Dussehra ended in rest parts of the country on Vijayadashmi, the weeklong Dussehra festivities of Kullu started on Sunday with the rath yatra of the Lord Raghunath in presence of just eight deities and a limited number of people.
While Kullu Dussehra Committee had sent invitations to 331 deities and thousands of people were present in the rath yatra last year, a limited number of people were present in the rath yatra along with eight deities this year. The deities first paid obeisance to the Lord Raghunath, presiding deity of the festivity and then performed the rituals. The rituals of the festivities start from the royal palace where royal family dressed in traditional attire performs the rituals. Rituals started after arrival of the palanquin of Devi Hidimba. The idol of the Lord Raghunath is then brought to Rath ground for rath yatra.
Not all people were allowed to pull the chariot. Administration had finalised 200 devotees for this purpose. All the devotees pulling chariot and those in procession of the deities had to undergo Covid-19 test. The chariot was pulled from Rath ground to the middle of the Dhalpur ground where it will stay for six days. The valley was echoing with the divine music of drums and trumpets. However, a limited number of musicians were allowed with each procession of the deity. On seventh day the chariot will be wheeled to the bank of Beas river to perform final rituals and then it will be brought back to Rath ground. The deities will camp at historic Dhalpur ground till October 31.
Covid-19 pandemic forced administration not to invite over 300 deities of the valley this year which otherwise had caused huge crowd. Palanquins of only seven deities were allowed to come to Dussehra venue to perform the major rituals. However, a large number of followers brought the palanquin of Lord Nag Dumal, a deity known for its wrath, without invitation. Kullu SDM had recently visited Hallan village to convince the deity Nag Dhumal and its followers not to come to Kullu Dussehra.
Kullu Dussehra, an international level cultural event, has no charm this year due to absence of nearly 300 deities and thousands of followers. The festivity venue does not have cultural and other colourful programmes. International folk dance competition has been cancelled this year. The Kullu Dussehra markets are shut. Even the permanent shops of Dhalpur and nearby areas were made to shut during rath-yatra to make sure that there is no crowd.
A large number of tourists used to witness the unique culture and tradition of Kullu in Dussehra but tourists were not allowed this time. Tourists, especially photographers and research scholars from abroad, used to visit Kullu Dussehra every year. Local residents were also not allowed to come close to the Dhalpur ground and people watched the event on television or from roof of their houses.
Chief minister inaugurates Kullu Dussehra every year. But the CM’s recorded video message was displayed at the festival venue on Sunday. Education minister Govind Thakur, who is the chairman of the Dussehra committee, MLAs from Kullu and officials from local administration were present.
Kullu Dussehra Committee chairman Govind Thakur said, “Covid-19 has forced us to cut short the Dussehra events. Only important rituals are being performed. Lord Raghunath and other deities will camp at Dhalpur ground for seven days where devotees can visit them to pay their obeisance. But people will not be allowed to touch the idols and they need to follow social distancing and wear face masks.”
According to Kullu SP Gaurav Singh, over 600 people jawans have been deployed to check law and order amid pandemic. “The major police deployment will be on first and last day of Dussehra during rath yatra. Nakas have been laid on all roads leading to Kullu town. Section 144 CrPC has been invoked. 90 CCTV cameras and four PTZ cameras have been established for Dussehra security, law and order, traffic management and to check social distancing and face cover,” he said.
Kullu’s seven-day-long Dussehra is unique because its starts on Vijayadashmi when it ends across the nation after burning effigies of Ravana, Kumbhakarna and Meghnath. Unlike other parts of the country, effigies are not burnt in Kullu Dussehra. Dussehra, which conveys message of victory of good over evil, is marked in Kullu by gathering of deities, their prayers, processions and religious ceremonies.
According to historians, the idol of Lord Raghunath was brought to Kullu from Ayodhya in 1651 when Raja Jagat Singh was the ruler of Kullu state. Dussehra celebrations in Kullu started after 1660 when the Raja invited all deities before Lord Raghunath. The people here are still following the same custom. Kullu Dussehra was declared an international festival in 1972.
Update on 31 October 2020
Kullu Dussehra ends with Lanka Dahan
The weeklong Dussehra festivities in Kullu concluded on Saturday after rath yatra and burning of Lanka in presence of a few deities and limited number of devotees.
The chariot of Lord Raghnath, the presiding deity of Dussehra, was pulled by devotees to the lower end of the ground. Palanquin of Devi Hidimba was taken for final rituals to Lanka Bekar where some shrubs and fodder was burnt to mark burning of Lanka. Unlike other Dussehras of the country, effigies of Ravana, Kumbhakarna and Meghnath are not burnt in Kullu Dussehra but the Lanka is burnt to denote victory of good over evil.
Later, chariot of Lord Raghunath was brought back to the Rath Maidan. The palanquins of the deities were then taken back to their respective temples. Some deities will reach back in their temples after on foot yatra for two to three days. No deity from outer Seraj area could participate in the festival. Dussehra festivities at Vashisht, Haripur, Thawa and Manikaran villages of Kullu also concluded on Saturday.
Dussehra of Kullu is unique because it starts when Dussehra in rest parts of the country ends. Unlike last year when 331 deities were invited by Dussehra Committee, only seven deities were invited to the festivity due to Covid-19. The festival was celebrated in the micro form without cultural programmes and without setting up of the temporary Dussehra markets. Himachal chief minister used to conclude the festivity every year but this year he could not come.
Unhappy Kullu deities call “court of Gods”
Not happy with Himachal government, Kullu administration and Dussehra organising committee for stopping deities from participating in historic Kullu Dussehra, the deities of Kullu have called chhoti jagti (mini court of Gods) in Kullu to give their verdict on the issue.
Citing Covid-19 pandemic, Dussehra Committee had invited only seven deities out of over 331 deities of the valley. Kardars, priests and the followers of all the deities are unhappy with the administration and government for their decision. They wanted all the deities to be invited, however, they had agreed on brining limited number of followers wearing face masks and adhering to all the precautions. Palanquins of some deities along with their followers reached the Dussehra uninvited and expressed their displeasure through their gur (the person speaking on behalf of the deity).
Many people along with palanquins of deities reached Kullu deputy commissioner office to seek answer that why administration and government are interfering with deities and religious rituals. When they didn’t get any reply, they reached the superintendent of police office. Then the deities assembled at Dussehra ground. The gur of the deities warned to face the consequences and asked to call a chhoti jagti. They also warned that organisers will have to face their wrath.
Deities and followers outside SP office in Kullu
Maheshwar Singh, chhadibardar (prime servant) of Lord Raghunath, said, “Deities are angry. They have ordered to call chhoti jagti. The main jagti is a large religious ceremony which is conducted at Naggar. This will be chhoti jagti which can be organised at Kullu’s Raghunath temple. Govardhan Puja day has been finalised for it. This time jagti is being called to discuss issues related to Dussehra.”
In Kullu, whenever people fail to decide on any major issue, a jagti (court of Gods) is called where all deities assemble and given their verdict which is accepted by all without argument. The devotees, public and deities (their gur) were unhappy that when political rallies are being organised, other festivals and weddings are being allowed, why administration and government didn’t invite palanquins of deities to celebrate the largest religious festival of the state.
Maheshwar added that he himself is sad with the behaviour of the administration. “They are warning people with announcement of curfew in Kullu. What does it mean? Are there any riots in the town? Instead of spreading terror, they should have simply announced to maintain social distancing and to wear face cover and should have spread awareness about Covid-19,” he added.
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