Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is one of the most vibrant and widely celebrated festivals in India, marking the victory of good over evil. This festival, held in October, honors Lord Rama’s triumph over Ravana in the Ramayana, as well as the goddess Durga’s victory over the buffalo demon Mahishasura. From grand effigy burnings to mesmerizing theatrical performances, Dussehra celebrations differ across India, offering travelers a unique cultural experience. Here are six spectacular Dussehra festivals you should witness across India. Get the best flight booking deals to visit these places.

1. Mysore Dussehra: A Royal Affair

Mysore in Karnataka hosts one of the grandest Dussehra festivals in the country. Known as Mysuru Dasara, this 10-day event is steeped in royal heritage and grandeur. The city’s iconic Mysore Palace is illuminated with thousands of lights, and a massive procession known as Jumbo Savari takes place on the final day. Elephants adorned in lavish decorations lead the procession, accompanied by cultural performances, traditional music, and folk dances. The palace and streets come alive with colorful festivities, making it a must-visit during Dussehra.

2. Kolkata’s Durga Puja: A Cultural Extravaganza

While Kolkata is best known for Durga Puja, this celebration coincides with Dussehra and concludes with Vijayadashami. In Kolkata, massive idols of Goddess Durga are worshipped, and extravagant pandals (temporary structures) are set up across the city. Each pandal is a work of art, showcasing intricate designs and cultural themes. On the final day, the idols are immersed in the Ganges River in a grand procession. Kolkata’s Durga Puja is not just a festival but a cultural experience filled with art, devotion, and celebration.

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3. Kullu Dussehra: A Celebration in the Valley of Gods

Kullu, a town in Himachal Pradesh, celebrates Kullu Dussehra in a unique and spiritual manner. Unlike other parts of India where effigies are burned, Kullu Dussehra focuses on a week-long procession of local deities to the Dhalpur Maidan. The festival is marked by music, dance, and fairs, with people from nearby villages participating in this grand event. It concludes with the symbolic burning of Lanka. Kullu’s Dussehra, set against the backdrop of the Himalayan mountains, offers a peaceful yet festive atmosphere.

4. Delhi’s Ramlila: Theatrical Storytelling

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Delhi’s Ramlila performances are one of the oldest traditions in the country, bringing the Ramayana to life through a series of theatrical acts. For 10 days, various Ramlila shows are performed in different parts of the city, with actors reenacting Lord Rama’s battle against Ravana. The festival culminates in the burning of giant Ravana effigies across Delhi’s grounds, drawing large crowds. The vibrant storytelling, combined with fireworks and traditional performances, makes it one of the most exciting Dussehra celebrations in India.

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5. Varanasi’s Ganga Dussehra: A Spiritual Celebration

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Varanasi, India’s spiritual capital, adds a divine touch to Dussehra celebrations with its unique Ganga Dussehra festival. Pilgrims gather on the ghats of the Ganges River to offer prayers, take holy dips, and witness mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremonies. The festival marks the victory of good over evil and includes grand processions and the burning of Ravana effigies along the riverside, making it a deeply spiritual experience.

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6. Ahmedabad’s Navratri and Dussehra: A Garba Fiesta

In Ahmedabad, Gujarat, Dussehra is celebrated alongside Navratri, with nine nights of energetic Garba and Dandiya Raas dancing. The culmination of these celebrations is Dussehra, where devotees honor the goddess Durga’s victory over evil. The city lights up with traditional music, dance performances, and cultural events, making Ahmedabad’s Dussehra a vibrant celebration full of energy and color.

Conclusion

Dussehra across India showcases the country’s rich cultural diversity, with each region bringing its unique flavor to the festival. Whether you’re drawn to royal processions, theatrical performances, or spiritual ceremonies, these six spectacular Dussehra festivals offer unforgettable experiences that highlight the triumph of good over evil. So, if you’re planning a cultural trip in October, witnessing these diverse Dussehra celebrations should be at the top of your list.

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