Kullu Dussehra- 2024

Kullu Dussehra History

The history of Kullu Dussehra dates back to the reign of Raja Jagat Singh, who ruled Kullu from 1637 to 1672. The festival’s origin is linked to a tragic event involving a poor Brahmin named Durga Dutt. Misled by the belief that Durga Dutt possessed a bowl of pearls, the Raja’s courtiers harassed him relentlessly. Unable to bear the torture, Durga Dutt set his house on fire, perishing with his family, and cursed the Raja.

Haunted by guilt and hallucinations, Raja Jagat Singh sought the advice of a saint named Krishan Dutt, who advised him to seek Lord Rama’s blessings. In 1651, a sacred idol of Lord Raghunathji was brought from Ayodhya, and the Raja’s health improved. Deeply moved, he declared Lord Raghunathji as the chief deity of Kullu, and thus began the tradition of Kullu Dussehra.

Kullu Dussehra 2024 Schedule

Kullu Dussehra 2024 will be celebrated from 12th October 2024 to 18th October 2024. This week-long festival, held at the Dhalpur ground in Kullu, is a grand celebration that attracts visitors from across the globe. Unlike the rest of the country, where Dussehra marks the end of Navratri, in Kullu, the festivities begin when others conclude.

• Start Date: 12th October 2024
• End Date: 18th October 2024
• Location: Dhalpur, Kullu-175101, Himachal Pradesh

The festival’s highlight is the Rath Yatra of Lord Raghunathji, where his idol is paraded through the streets in a beautifully decorated chariot. Over 100 deities from nearby villages join this procession to pay homage to Lord Raghunathji. The festival also includes various cultural programs at LCP Kala Kendra, with tickets available for ₹500 per night or ₹3000 for all seven nights.

This year, the opening ceremony will be graced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, adding a special touch to the event. The atmosphere will be filled with devotion, music, and the vibrant energy of this unique celebration.

How to Reach Kullu Dussehra Venue – Dhalpur, Kullu

Reaching the Dhalpur ground in Kullu for the Kullu Dussehra festival is easy with various modes of transportation available. Here’s a guide on how to get there:

1. By Air

The nearest airport to Kullu is the Bhuntar Airport (Kullu-Manali Airport), located about 10 kilometres from Dhalpur ground. Bhuntar is well-connected to major cities like Delhi and Chandigarh with regular flights. From the airport, you can take a taxi or local bus to reach the venue.

• Distance from Bhuntar Airport to Dhalpur, Kullu: 10 km
• Estimated Travel Time: 20-30 minutes

2. By Road

Kullu is well-connected by road with all major cities in Himachal Pradesh and neighbouring states.

• From Delhi: The distance between Delhi and Kullu is approximately 497 kilometres. You can opt for an overnight bus or drive, which takes around 12-14 hours.
• From Chandigarh: The distance from Chandigarh to Kullu is about 270 kilometres, and the journey by bus or car takes around 7-8 hours.
• From Manali: If you’re coming from Manali, it’s just a 40-kilometre drive, taking about 1.5-2 hours.

Bus Services: Himachal Pradesh Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) and private operators offer regular bus services to Kullu from major cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, Shimla, and Dharamshala.

3. By Train

The nearest major railway station is Chandigarh Railway Station, located around 270 kilometres from Kullu. From Chandigarh, you can hire a taxi, take a bus, or even rent a car to reach Kullu. Another option is the Joginder Nagar Railway Station, which is about 125 kilometres from Kullu, but the connectivity is less frequent.

4. By Taxi or Self-Drive

For those who prefer driving, renting a car or hiring a taxi is a convenient option. The roads leading to Kullu offer scenic views of the mountains and rivers, making the journey enjoyable.

• Coordinates for Dhalpur Ground, Kullu:
  • Latitude: 31.9566° N
  • Longitude: 77.1093° E
  • Google Maps Link

5. Local Transportation

Once you reach Kullu, local buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis are available to take you to Dhalpur ground. The venue is centrally located, making it easily accessible from anywhere in the town.

Final Tip for your Kullu dessehra trip

Plan your travel in advance, especially during the festival, as the roads can get crowded. Arriving a day or two early will give you ample time to explore the beautiful town of Kullu and soak in the festive atmosphere.

Programs & Events in Kullu Dussehra 2024

Kullu Dussehra 2024 promises a week-long celebration filled with vibrant cultural programs, religious ceremonies, and a festive atmosphere that draws visitors from all over the world. Here’s a look at the key events and programs you can expect during this year’s festivities:

1. Grand Rath Yatra

The festival begins on 12th October 2024 with the Rath Yatra of Lord Raghunathji. This grand procession is the centrepiece of Kullu Dussehra, where the idol of Lord Raghunathji is carried in a beautifully decorated chariot through the streets of Kullu. Accompanied by over 100 deities from nearby villages, the Rath Yatra is a spectacular sight, symbolising the unity of the gods and the people. The procession is marked by traditional music, devotional songs, and the enthusiastic participation of devotees.

2. Cultural Programs at LCP Kala Kendra

Throughout the week, LCP Kala Kendra in Dhalpur hosts a variety of cultural programs. These include performances by renowned artists, traditional Himachali folk dances, and music that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region. This year, you can purchase tickets for individual nights or a week-long pass to enjoy these performances:

• Ticket Price: ₹500 per night or ₹3000 for 7 nights (with a ₹500 discount).

3. International Cultural Performances in Kullu Dessehra

One of the highlights of Kullu Dussehra is the participation of cultural troupes from over 15 countries. These international performances add a global flavor to the festival, offering a unique blend of world cultures alongside the traditional Indian celebrations. Expect to see a mix of dance, music, and theatrical performances that captivate audiences and celebrate global diversity.

4. Religious Rituals and Ceremonies

Each day of the festival includes various religious rituals and ceremonies dedicated to Lord Raghunathji and other deities. Devotees can participate in the daily pujas, aartis, and special ceremonies held at the Raghunath Temple and other sacred sites in Kullu. The atmosphere during these rituals is charged with spiritual energy, offering a deeply moving experience for those who attend.

5. Traditional Fair and Local Handicrafts

Dhalpur ground also transforms into a bustling fair, where you can explore a wide array of local handicrafts, traditional Himachali attire, and delicious local cuisine. The fair is a great opportunity to shop for unique souvenirs, enjoy local delicacies, and experience the vibrant market atmosphere that reflects the spirit of Kullu.

6. Procession of Deities

On the final day of Kullu Dussehra, 18th October 2024, all the participating deities are paraded back to their respective villages in a grand procession. This marks the culmination of the festival and is a moment of both celebration and farewell. The procession is accompanied by music, dance, and the collective joy of the people, making it a fitting end to the week-long festivities.

7. Fireworks Display

To close the festival, a spectacular fireworks display lights up the sky over Kullu, symbolising the triumph of good over evil. This dazzling show is a favourite among both locals and visitors, providing a magical end to the Kullu Dussehra celebrations.

Kullu Dussehra 2024 is set to be an unforgettable experience, filled with cultural richness, spiritual depth, and the warmth of community. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning participant, the events and programs of this year’s festival will leave you with lasting memories.

         In addition, i am providing official website link of Kullu Dessehra. Checkout for detailed schedule of the events. https://kulludussehra.hp.gov.in/.

Conclusion

Kullu Dussehra 2024 is more than just a festival; it’s a vibrant celebration of culture, tradition, and community. With its grand Rath Yatra, diverse cultural performances, and deeply rooted religious rituals, the festival offers an immersive experience that brings people together from all walks of life. As the week-long festivities unfold, visitors are treated to a unique blend of spiritual devotion and cultural expression that is both captivating and enriching. Whether you’re there for the divine rituals, the lively fairs, or the mesmerising performances, Kullu Dussehra 2024 promises memories that will last a lifetime.

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 Mohit Bangari

04/09/2024