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Dussera 2023: 8 Must-Visit Destinations for the Perfect Celebration
Dussehra, also known as Vijaya Dashami, is one of India's most vibrant and joyous festivals. It marks the triumph of good over evil and is celebrated with great enthusiasm throughout the country. In West Bengal, Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Delhi, Gujarat, and Maharashtra, Dussehra is commemorated in unique and spectacular ways.
West Bengal - Vijaya Dashami in the Land of Goddess Durga
In West Bengal, Dussehra takes the form of "Vijaya Dashami" and is a grand celebration of the victory of Goddess Durga over evil. The festival concludes with the immersion of beautifully crafted idols of the goddess in the holy Ganges River after a 10-day worship. Crowds gather at elaborately decorated pandals to witness cultural performances, including dances and music, making it a mesmerizing experience for all.
Himachal Pradesh - Kullu Dussehra: The Valley of Gods Celebrates
Kullu Dussehra in Himachal Pradesh is not just a local event; it's an international extravaganza that has been celebrated since 1972. This week-long festival sees colorful processions with deities from nearby villages carried on beautifully decorated chariots. The entire valley comes alive with traditional attire and joy, and the festivities culminate with the immersion of idols in the Beas River.
Karnataka - The Royal Celebration in Mysore
Mysore, Karnataka, celebrates Dussehra with a royal touch, adorning the city with colorful lights and decorations. The highlight of this celebration is the grand procession of a beautifully decorated elephant carrying an idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari. The culmination of these festivities features the renowned Jamboo Savari and Torchlight Parade, drawing thousands of spectators from across the globe.
Uttar Pradesh - Varanasi's Grand Ramlila
In Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, Dussehra is celebrated with great pomp and enthusiasm, particularly at the iconic Dashashwamedh Ghat. Here, you can witness the grand Ramlila, a dramatic reenactment of Lord Rama's victory over the demon king Ravana. The city streets come alive with processions featuring colorful idols of deities, horses, and melodious music.
Uttarakhand - Almora's Unique Dussehra
Almora in Uttarakhand celebrates Dussehra uniquely, by parading statues of the villains from the Ramayana. Locals create statues of the evil characters, then march them through the town, culminating in the burning of these statues in an open area. It's a fascinating and somewhat cathartic way to mark the victory of good over evil.
Delhi - Ramlila Grounds, a Hub of Celebration
Dussehra in the heart of India, Delhi, is celebrated with immense enthusiasm. People gather at Ramlila grounds to witness the reenactment of Lord Rama's victory over Ravana, complete with colorful costumes and music. The city is lit up with a vibrant atmosphere during this celebration.
Gujarat - The Grandeur of Dussehra in Ahmedabad
Ahmedabad in Gujarat celebrates Dussehra with great joy and enthusiasm. People come together to watch vibrant processions and Ramlila performances. The highlight of the celebration is the burning of colossal effigies of the demon king Ravana, symbolizing the victory of good over evil. Families exchange sweets and gifts, and women apply colorful sindoor (vermilion) on each other's foreheads.
Maharashtra - Nashik's Grand Dussehra Celebrations
Nashik in Maharashtra is renowned for its grand Dussehra celebrations. People gather at the city's famous Ramkund Ghat to immerse idols of Lord Rama, Sita, and Laxmana in the Godavari River. The ten-day festival is marked by processions, cultural events, and colorful Rangoli decorations, making it a truly memorable experience.
So, if you're planning to celebrate Dussehra, consider one of these top 8 destinations for an unforgettable experience.
- PTC PUNJABI
