Pray, Eat and Enjoy – Dussehra


Pray, Eat and Enjoy – Dussehra

Dussehra – a festival with different connotations in various parts of India. In Bengal, Dussehra is synonymous with Durga Puja. It marks the triumph of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura – victory of good over evil. Celebration of Durga puja is an elaborate affair in Kolkata. Lavish pandals are setup with artistically depicted murtis of Goddess Durga. Food is a delightful indulgence during this time, with pandals offering variety of dishes to the visitors. It’s indeed a gastronomical journey of sorts.

Up North, Dussehra signifies the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana. During those ten days many plays and dramas are performed outdoors known as Ramlila. Large effigies of Ravana, Kumbhakarna and son Meghanad are burnt on bonfires later in the evening. In Kullu valley, Himachal Pradesh, Dussehra is celebrated as ‘Kullu Dussehra’ and marks the beginning of a seven day celebration starting on Vijayadashami.

 South India – each state has a unique story about Dussehra. In Andhra Pradesh it is celebrated as ‘Bomma Golu’ or ‘Kolu’ in Tamil Nadu. The ninth day signifies Ayudha Puja and people sanctify vehicles and other electronic items. Factories and establishments, government transport are decorated with flowers. Sweets and gifts are distributed to employees. In some regions of Karnataka, Dasara as it is known, is the time when bonuses are announced to workforce in manufacturing establishments.

Mysore Dasara, renowned world over, witnesses the culmination of the navarathri celebration on the tenth day – Vijayadashami. The golden howrah with the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari is mounted on a elephant and taken on a procession to Banni Mantapa, where the celebrations end.

Dussehra, no matter what your reason you have to celebrate, the undeniable fact is, it’s the time to pray for good times ahead, enjoy great food with family and friends, and look forward to another colourful Dussehra next year.

Location: New Delhi, Delhi, India

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