Festivals : Kullu Dussehra

Dussehra, symbolising the triumph of good over evil, is celebrated in grand style in Kullu region in Himachal Pradesh. When Dussehra celebrations come to an end in the rest of the country, they begin at Kullu. These ten days of festivity is a time when the valley is at its best.

Colourful processions of devotees bearing gold and silver images of gods and goddesses move to Kullu from all parts of the valley. The first day is marked by the homage paid to Lord Raghunath. The next nine days are marked by rituals, the graceful Natti dances, singing and other performances.

As part of the festival, traders from all over the valley set up temporary stalls. They offer woollen shawls, caps, blankets, Pullan (the traditional footwear made from plant fibre and
goat hair) and many other things. This is the best time to see the crafts of the Kullu valley, especially the traditional clothing of its people.