By Tn Lifestyle Desk

Copyright timesnownews

Dussehra, also known as Vijaya Dashami, is a major Hindu festival that celebrates the victory of good over evil. This year, the festival will be observed on Thursday, 2 October. The Sanskrit words ‘Dasha’ (meaning ten) and ‘Hara’ (meaning defeat) form the origin of the festival’s name. The festival marks the triumph of good over evil, with many regions focusing on Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana. It also symbolises new beginnings and prosperity, with many people choosing this day to start new ventures. With Dussehra just around the corner, here are seven unique celebrations from different parts of India. Kullu, Himachal Pradesh Dussehra in Kullu attracts thousands of visitors from across India, as well as international tourists. Local artists dress up as gods and goddesses and take part in decorated chariots and palanquins, accompanied by large crowds. Visitors can also enjoy music and cultural shows, folk performances, and acts by national and international artists. This year, the Himachal Pradesh government has invited cultural troupes of 7–10 members, along with four artisans, to showcase the heritage and traditional cuisine of their countries. Mysuru, Karnataka In Mysuru, Dussehra, also known as Mysore Dasara, is a grand festival celebrating the victory of truth over evil. The 10-day festival culminates on Vijayadashami and draws tourists and devotees from around the world. The tradition of celebrating Dasara in Mysuru dates back to the 16th century. Mysore Dasara is famous for its elaborately decorated elephants and traditional music and cultural performances throughout the celebrations. Kota, Rajasthan The Kota Dussehra Fair is a major cultural event in Rajasthan, lasting nearly a month with numerous religious and cultural activities. The highlight is the burning of giant effigies, usually 75–80 feet tall, of Ravana, Kumbhakarna, and Meghnad. The fair began in 1723 AD under Maharaja Durjanshal Singh, and the former royal family still takes part. Events such as Kavi Sammelan, Mushaira, and wrestling competitions are held during the celebrations. Nashik, Maharashtra In Nashik, people gather at the famous Ramkund Ghat to immerse idols of Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana in the Godavari River. The festival features colourful processions, cultural performances, and rangoli displays. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh Dussehra in Varanasi is spectacular, with the entire city transforming into an open-air theatre. The Ramlila of Ramnagar, held on the banks of the Ganges, is one of the oldest performances of its kind and was recognised as an “Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity” by UNESCO in 2008. Local actors perform the story of Lord Rama, concluding the month-long event with the dramatic burning of Ravana’s effigies. Bastar, Chhattisgarh The Bastar festival, believed to have started in the 13th century, is the longest in India, lasting 75 days. Unlike other Dussehra celebrations, it is not linked to the Ramayana and is dedicated to Goddess Danteshwari, the local deity, and other tribal gods and goddesses. The streets are filled with people from different tribes in traditional attire. A huge, decorated chariot takes centre stage and is pulled through the streets by up to 400 people during the celebrations. Travel News – Find latest news and tips based on Indian and World travel including top 10 travel destination, tourism information, how to reach visit and more at Times Now.