Festive season is in full swing and eventually we have reached the 10th day of celebrations. It is the day of Dusshera, the win of truth, the right over wrong. Happy Dusshera aka Vijay Dashami to all of you.
We all know that India is a country of festivals and celebrations.
Celebration of Vijay Dashmi is no less, different city different ways of celebrating each being unique and distinct from each other. In my home only I get to hear various versions of celebrating Dusshera from 10 days of traditional Ramleela, visiting melas (fairs) to having a pooja and inviting guests at home.
I guess this is the beauty of our culture. The way we feel it, immerse in it and take the essence of it, is what makes it more special. Today is a special day and let me introduce with top 10 ways of celebrating it.
Kolkata, West Bengal – Durga Puja Magic
Kolkata turns into a magical land during Durga Puja, with the celebrations peaking around Dussehra. The city is filled with beautifully crafted pandals and idol displays of Goddess Durga. Watching the grand idol immersion at the Hooghly River is truly a spiritual experience.
Mumbai, Maharashtra – Lavish Pandals and Effigy Burning
Mumbai’s Dussehra is a vibrant mix of Durga Puja celebrations and Ravana effigy burning. While you explore the city, don’t miss the bustling pandals in areas like Juhu and Worli. The iconic effigy burning at Shivaji Park is a highlight, attracting crowds for a night filled with cheers and fireworks.
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh – Ramleela and River Ganges
Varanasi is famous for its Ramleela performance during Dussehra, a tradition that’s been passed down for generations. Performed on the ghats of the Ganges, the enactment of the Ramayana story culminates in a fiery Ravana Dahan that lights up the night.
Kullu, Himachal Pradesh – Kullu Dussehra
For a different vibe, head to Kullu. This hill town celebrates Dussehra for an entire week, drawing deities from nearby villages for grand processions and cultural performances. It’s a colorful, authentic celebration steeped in local customs.
Delhi – Ramleela Maidan Extravaganza
Dussehra in Delhi means huge gatherings at Ramleela Maidan to witness the traditional burning of massive effigies of Ravana, Kumbhkaran, and Meghnath. The atmosphere is electric with fireworks, and the crowd’s excitement is palpable.
Bastar, Chhattisgarh – Tribal Dussehra
Bastar offers a Dussehra experience unlike any other, blending tribal traditions with religious rituals. This celebration lasts a whopping 75 days and involves unique processions, deities from tribal villages, and mesmerizing local dances.
Ahmedabad, Gujarat – Garba and Ravana Dahan
In Ahmedabad, you can dance away during the energetic Garba nights, and on Dussehra, witness the grand Ravana Dahan at the city’s iconic spots. The celebrations are full of vibrant colors, music, and Gujarati flavor!
Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh – Kanaka Durga Temple
Dussehra in Vijayawada is a deeply spiritual celebration. Thousands of devotees visit the famous Kanaka Durga Temple, where a grand procession takes place, and the deity is paraded around the city. The energy and devotion in the air are unforgettable.
Benaulim, Goa – ‘Narkasur Vadh’ and Beach Bonfires
In Goa, Dussehra takes a quirky turn with the ‘Narkasur Vadh,’ where huge demon effigies are burned in a festive beachside bonfire. With parades, music, and the sound of crashing waves, this celebration adds a fun Goan twist to the festival.
Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh – Historic Ramleela and Fireworks
Jabalpur brings history alive with its traditional Ramleela performances during Dussehra. The city also hosts a massive Ravana Dahan at the Gwarighat, where effigies are set on fire in a blaze of fireworks. The combination of tradition and festivity makes it a must-visit during the Dussehra season.
Hope this Dusshera brings in lots of happiness and prosperity letting all your fears vanished away. Let me known in comments how are you celebrating Dusshera would love to hear your own unique traditions and rituals that completes this day.
Travellogs 