KOTA DUSSEHRA

Celebrated In : Kota, Rajasthan Occasion : Ram's victory over Ravana celebrated. Duration : Lasts for a fortnight.

More than 75 feet tall effigies of the demons Ravana, Kumbhakarana and Meghnath are burnt on Dussehra day to symbolise the victory of good over evil. This festival is celebrated all over the country but the Kota Dussehra is quite unique for it marks more than just the beginning of a festive period. Villagers gather here dressed in multicoloured clothes to offer prayers to Lord Rama and to celebrate his victory over Ravana.

Rich in courtly splendour and age old traditions, the Dussehra festival here is marked by a glittering procession, which attracts thousands from the surrounding villages. Like all festivals in Rajasthan, it provides a good opportunity to the traders to display their attractive wares to the rural and urban buyers.

Prominent artists from all over the country are invited to participate in cultural programmes who enthral the huge audience with their performances. The fair lasts for about a fortnight.