1 / 51. Bastar Dussehra - Chhattisgarh | Bastar Dussehra, also known as Jagdalpur Dussehra, is a one-of-a-kind celebration that extends for over 75 days. It begins on the day of the new moon in the Hindu month of Ashwin and culminates on Vijayadashami. This extraordinary celebration dates back to the 13th century during the reign of the 4th King of Bastar, King Purshottam Dev. Bastar Dussehra pays homage to the local deity, Goddess Danteshwari Devi. The festivities are marked by colorful processions, traditional dances, and a deep connection with the region's tribal heritage. (Image: Reuters)
2 / 52. Ramlila - Delhi and Northern India | Ramlila is a folk re-enactment of the life of Lord Rama, based on the epic Ramayana. This 10-day celebration concludes on Vijayadashami (Dussehra) night when effigies of the demon king Ravana are set ablaze. While Ramlila is performed across northern India, Delhi hosts some of the most extravagant Ramlilas in the country. Notable locations for these performances include Ramlila Maidan and Red Fort, attracting spectators from all over the nation. (Image: Shutterstock)
3 / 53. Kullu Dussehra - Himachal Pradesh | Kullu Dussehra is a week-long festival that commences on the day of Vijayadashami. Celebrated in the Dhalpur maidan in the Kullu valley, it is renowned for its grand 'Rath Yatra,' which is organised on the first day. The festival reaches its climax on the final day when the chariot of Lord Raghunath is taken near River Beas, and heaps of thorn bushes are set on fire, symbolising the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana. This year, the festival is set to begin on October 24, 2023. (Image: Shutterstock)
4 / 54. Kulasekarapattinam Dasara - Tamil Nadu | The Kulasai Mutharamman Temple near Thiruchendur in Tamil Nadu is famous for its unique Navaratri and Dussehra celebrations. Devotees observe a 41-day fast, and during the final ten days, they emulate local gods and goddesses, with thousands dressing up as Kali and other deities. The festivities culminate with a dramatic portrayal of Mahisasura Mardini, where the goddess, riding a lion, defeats Mahisasura on the shores of Kulasekarapattinam at midnight, a spectacle known as "Soorasamharam." The celebration continues with dancing and the lighting of fireworks. (Image: Shutterstock)
5 / 55. Mysuru Dasara - Karnataka | Unlike the northern Dussehra, Mysuru Dasara focuses on Goddess Chamundeswari's triumph over Mahisasura. On the 10th day of Navratri, lakhs of people gather for the "Jambu Savari," a grand procession from the palace to Banni Mantap grounds. This event marks the culmination of the 10-day festival, featuring dance groups, music bands, horses, camels, vintage cars, and vibrant tableaux parading through Mysuru's streets from the royal gates. (Image: Shutterstock)
