The Valley Of God || International Kullu Dussehra 2026 || Major Events Of 7 Days With Pooja Wazir 🏹

History of Kullu Dussehra (कुल्लू दशहरा) Kullu Dussehra is one of the most famous religious and cultural festivals of Himachal Pradesh. It is celebrated every year in the historic town of Kullu, in the Kullu Valley. Unlike Dussehra celebrations in other parts of India, where effigies of Ravana, Meghnath and Kumbhkaran are burnt, Kullu Dussehra is celebrated through the worship of Lord Raghunath (Lord Rama). 1. Beginning of Kullu Dussehra The history of Kullu Dussehra dates back to the 17th century, during the reign of Raja Jagat Singh (1637–1672). According to popular historical tradition: Raja Jagat Singh was the ruler of Kullu. He was informed that a Brahmin named Durga Dutt possessed precious pearls. The king demanded that the Brahmin hand over the pearls. Unable to fulfil the king's demand, Durga Dutt and his family died by suicide, cursing the king. After this incident, the king reportedly suffered from guilt and illness. 2. Arrival of Lord Raghunath To free himself from his suffering, Raja Jagat Singh sought the advice of a saint named Krishan Das Payahari. The saint advised him to bring an idol of Lord Rama from Ayodhya and establish it in Kullu. In 1651, the idol of Lord Raghunath was brought from Ayodhya and installed at Sultanpur in Kullu. The king offered his kingdom to Lord Raghunath and accepted the deity as the supreme ruler of Kullu. 3. Beginning of the Dussehra Festival In 1651, Raja Jagat Singh started the tradition of celebrating Dussehra in Kullu. The festival begins on Vijayadashami, the day when Dussehra celebrations end in most other parts of India. This unique tradition made Kullu Dussehra different from other Dussehra celebrations. 4. Why Is Kullu Dussehra Different? Kullu Dussehra has several unique traditions: Rath Yatra: Lord Raghunath is taken out in a beautifully decorated wooden chariot. Dev Milan: Hundreds of village deities (Devis and Devtas) gather at Dhalpur Maidan. Arrival of Goddess Hadimba: Goddess Hadimba from Manali has an important ceremonial role. Lanka Dahan: The festival concludes with traditional rituals near the River Beas. Cultural Programmes: Traditional Kullu Nati, folk music, handicrafts and cultural performances are organised. DD News +2 5. Religious and Cultural Importance Kullu Dussehra represents: Faith in Lord Raghunath. Unity among the village deities of Kullu Valley. The rich traditions and cultural heritage of Himachal Pradesh. The victory of good over evil. The preservation of Dev Sanskriti (देव संस्कृति). Today, Kullu Dussehra is recognised as an international festival and attracts visitors from India and abroad.