From Navratri to Durga Puja, every region has its own unique and diverse ways of honoring God, especially during this time. DussehraWhat distinguishes the Dussehra festival of Kullu Valley is its focus on the worship of Lord Rama rather than the Goddess. With a magnificent Rath Yatra, vibrant fair and vibrant dance, Kullu DussehraAlso known as the International Kullu Dussehra Festival, it is a true celebration of the heritage of the region and worship of Lord Raghunath, the presiding deity of the Kullu Valley.

History of Kullu Dussehra

Kullu Dussehra started in 1637 during the reign of Raja Jagat Singh. According to legend, the king came to know about a Brahmin named Durga Dutt who had a bowl of pearls. When the king sent his men to bring back the pearl, they mistreated Datta, who swore to return the pearl only when the king returned to the village. On his arrival, Dutt locks himself and his family inside his house and sets it on fire, cursing the king for his greed.

Troubled by the spirits of the dead family, Raja Jagat Singh started having disturbing visions, he started seeing insects instead of rice and blood in his water glass. As news of his declining health spread, a recluse named Krishna Dutt (Pahari Baba) advised the king that he needed the blessings of Lord Rama.

In 1651 the king obtained an idol of Lord Rama from Ayodhya and installed it in the Raghunathji temple at Sultanpur Kullu. Special priests were called from Ayodhya to perform the installation rituals, and their descendants maintain these customs. The king, whose recovery increased his devotion, eventually abdicated his throne in favor of Raghunathji and became his ‘Chharibardar’. He invited all the local ‘Kardars’ of various deities of the state to join in the celebration of Vijay Dashami, which marks the beginning of the festivities. Himachal Pradesh Centuries ago.

What to expect in Kullu Dussehra?

Kullu Dussehra is a week long celebration, starting on the day of Vijayadashami and ending a week later at Dhalpur grounds, with hundreds of gods and goddesses decorated in elaborate decorations. Notably, the celebrations do not involve Ramlila acts or symbolize the victory of good over evil.

Devotees from Ujhi, Lagg, Maharaja, Rupi, Banjar, Sainj and outer Saraj region gather in Kullu, taking to the streets carrying their local deities in a grand procession. Various deities (over 300 in fact) are kept in camps throughout the festival week. On the final morning, all the deities emerge from their tents and, accompanied by their musicians, march towards the Raghunathji temple to pay obeisance. Then a Rath Yatra begins, which takes the idol of the deity to the Dhalpur grounds. The procession is accompanied by traditional music, including the beating of drums and the sounds of folk instruments, creating a festive atmosphere that resonates with the local culture. Local artisans and craftsmen also participate in the festival, showcasing their handmade products including woolen textiles, handicrafts and traditional jewellery.

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