Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, celebrates the triumph of good over evil. While the core meaning remains the same nationwide, regional traditions and customs make each celebration unique. From grand processions to intimate rituals, these seven destinations showcase India’s rich cultural diversity during this festival.
1. Kolkata – Durga Puja Celebrations
In Kolkata, Dussehra coincides with Durga Puja, honoring Goddess Durga’s victory over Mahishasura. The city is decorated with intricate pandals, each with a unique theme. Cultural performances, traditional dances, and festive feasts add vibrancy. A key ritual, Sindoor Khela, sees married women applying vermilion to each other’s faces, marking the joyous culmination of Durga Puja.
2. Ahmedabad – Ravan Dahan
Ahmedabad celebrates Ravan Dahan, a spectacular event where effigies of Ravana, Meghnath, and Kumbhkaran are set on fire. The festival features music, dance, and cultural programs, drawing thousands of spectators. The burning effigies symbolize the victory of good over evil and remain a highlight of the city’s festivities.
3. Delhi – Ramlila and Ravana Effigy Burning
Delhi hosts elaborate Ramlila performances, bringing the Ramayana epic to life. The festival ends with the burning of massive Ravana effigies, representing the destruction of evil. Celebrations include fireworks, fairs, and cultural programs, attracting visitors from all over India.
4. Punjab – Devotional Dussehra
In Punjab, Dussehra has a devotional focus. Devotees fast, sing hymns during Jagraatas (night vigils), and arrange Bhandaras (community feasts). Worship of Goddess Shakti is central, with processions and prayers across towns and villages.
5. Bastar, Chhattisgarh – Bastar Dussehra
Bastar Dussehra, lasting 75 days, is a unique celebration dedicated to Goddess Danteshwari. Tribal customs include transfer of power to the Diwan (chief), grand Rath Yatra, Pat Jatra, and traditional dances. The festival emphasizes nature-centric rituals and local tribal traditions, offering a one-of-a-kind cultural experience.
6. Chennai – Bommai Kolu Tradition
In Chennai, families celebrate Dussehra with Bommai Kolu, a stepped display of dolls and figurines depicting mythological stories and daily life scenes. Cultural performances, storytelling, and distribution of prasadam (sacred offerings) accompany the exhibits, highlighting the region’s artistic and devotional heritage.
7. Kullu, Himachal Pradesh – Kullu Dussehra
Kullu Dussehra is a week-long festival celebrated with colorful processions, traditional music, and cultural events. The local deity, Raghunath, is taken through grand processions, attracting devotees and tourists alike. Unlike other regions, Kullu’s festivities continue for several days, making it a must-visit destination during Dussehra.
