a hill town in Himachal Pradesh follows a different tradition While Dussehra celebrations conclude on Vijayadashami in much of India. Here, the festival begins on the very day it marks the end of celebrations elsewhere. The centuries-old custom has its roots in the region’s royal history and distinctive religious practices.
The role of Lord Raghunath in Kullu Dussehra
In 2026, the official Kullu district website lists the International Kullu Dussehra celebrations from October 21 to 27. Lord Raghunath subsequently became the principal deity of the valley, and the festival developed around his worship. Unlike in many parts of India, where Dussehra celebrations culminate on Vijayadashami with the burning of Ravana’s effigies, the day marks the beginning of Kullu’s week-long festivities. Lord Raghunath remains the central figure of the festival. The celebrations feature a grand Rath Yatra, during which his decorated wooden chariot is pulled by devotees to Dhalpur Maidan. The procession is joined by village deities carried on elaborately decorated palanquins, accompanied by priests, musicians and devotees. The festival also includes traditional music, folk performances and Nati dances, along with exhibitions and local markets. These activities make Kullu Dussehra a cultural gathering as well as a religious celebration . The festival typically continues for seven days after beginning on Vijayadashami.
