Kullu: The seven-day International Kullu Dussehra festival began on Wednesday, October 21, in Kullu, Himachal Pradesh, with a grand chariot procession dedicated to Lord Raghunath. The opening ceremony attracted large crowds of devotees and visitors to the historic Dhalpur ground.
According to a report by Dainik Bhaskar, the main attraction on the first day was the traditional Rath Yatra, during which devotees pulled the chariot of Lord Raghunath. The procession covered a distance of approximately 500 metres and took around 30 minutes to complete.
The festival witnessed the arrival of around 300 deities from different parts of the region, reflecting the rich religious and cultural traditions associated with Kullu Dussehra. The gathering of local deities is one of the festival’s distinctive features and draws devotees from across Himachal Pradesh and beyond.
Large crowds gathered at Dhalpur ground to witness the celebrations. According to the report, some spectators climbed onto rooftops to get a better view of the procession as the area filled with people.
Kullu Dussehra is a major annual cultural and religious event in Himachal Pradesh. Unlike many Dussehra celebrations elsewhere in India, which mark the festival with the burning of Ravana’s effigy, Kullu’s celebrations are centred on Lord Raghunath and the participation of regional deities.
The festival brings together religious traditions, local customs and cultural activities, making it an important occasion for residents and tourists alike.
The celebrations are scheduled to continue for seven days, with religious gatherings and other festival activities expected throughout the event.
