The iconic International Kullu Dussehra festival commenced on Wednesday with the grand rath yatra of Bhagwan Raghunath, as the Kullu valley reverberated with devotional chants and the sound of traditional instruments. The seven-day festival, running from October 21 to 27, has drawn an estimated one lakh devotees to the Dhalpur ground, transforming the valley into a confluence of faith, tradition, and folk culture.
Bhagwan Raghunath arrived at the Rath Maidan in a palanquin at 4:22 PM, after which traditional religious rituals were performed. The rath yatra then set off toward Dhalpur at 5:14 PM amid resounding chants of Jai Shri Ram and the beats of sacred instruments. The procession reached Bhagwan Raghunath’s temporary camp at 5:25 PM. This year’s yatra began 24 minutes later than last year. Devotees lined the route at every point to catch a glimpse of Bhagwan Raghunath and offer their reverence.
A divine procession of nearly 300 deities
Accompanying Bhagwan Raghunath in the rath yatra were approximately 100 deities, including Bijli Mahadev, Hidimba Mata, Devta Ajay Pal, Pirdi Mahadev, Dhumbal Naag, Jawani Mahadev, and Virnath. With close to 300 deities having arrived at Dhalpur in all, the ground has transformed into a living embodiment of Himachal’s ancient dev parampara. Thousands of devotees pulled the rath themselves, considering it an act of religious merit.
Himachal Pradesh Governor Kavindra Gupta was among those present to witness the occasion. Former Supreme Court Justice Justice Sanjay Karol and Himachal Congress in-charge Rajni Patil also attended the celebrations.
Seven days of celebration
The festival will continue at Dhalpur until October 27, with religious and cultural activities scheduled each day. The temporary deity camps set up across the grounds will remain a special draw for pilgrims and visitors. Arrangements have been put in place by the district administration and the festival committee to ensure smooth conduct of the event.
