A goddess leaves home: The emotional tradition behind Kullu Dussehra

Описание: As Dussehra celebrations wind down in much of India, a unique tradition marks the beginning of the seven-day Kullu Dussehra festival in Himachal Pradesh. On Tuesday, Goddess Hidimba left her permanent abode at the Hidimba Temple in Manali for Kullu, with devotees carrying her idol in a palanquin on their shoulders along the traditional route.

The journey is both historic and deeply emotional for devotees, who accompany the Goddess as she leaves her temple for a few days. The procession includes an overnight halt at Ramshila before Goddess Hidimba proceeds to the Kullu royal palace. According to the temple caretaker, the formal rituals and ceremonies of Kullu Dussehra begin only after the Goddess reaches the palace and is ceremonially welcomed with a Chhadi.

Revered as the chief deity of the region, Goddess Hidimba holds a central place in Kullu’s religious and cultural traditions. Her annual journey reflects the deep connection between local communities, their deities and centuries-old customs. During the seven-day festival, daily prayers and rituals continue at her temporary camp, highlighting the distinctive traditions that set Kullu Dussehra apart from Dussehra celebrations elsewhere in the country.

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