In a mesmerising show of traditional festivity, over 300 deities from Kullu district descended on Kullu in Himachal Pradesh, where a large number of people assembled to touch the rath ( chariot) of Lord Raghunath on the first day of the week-long Dussehra celebrations.
The deities, who reached Dhalpur ground in Kullu in a procession at the inauguration ceremony would stay in camps for one week till the international Kullu Dussehra festival ends.
The festival was inaugurated by Himachal Governor, Shiv Pratap Shukla, who participated in the Rath Yatra of Lord Raghunath. Lady Governor Janaki Shukla was also present on the occasion.
The Governor walked to the main attraction of the festival with thousands of other devotees and paid his obeisance to Lord Raghunath. Deputy Chief Minister Shri Mukesh Agnihotri was also present on the occasion.
Shukla said it was the good fortune of the people of the state that Lord Raghunath resides in Kullu. "May his blessings remain on us and we continue to carry forward our Dev culture in this manner, he said. He said that this festival was also important from the tourism point of view.
The Governor inaugurated the exhibitions put up by various government departments, boards, corporations and other non-government organizations. He also visited the stalls and appreciated the exhibits.
He said it was with immense pleasure and pride that he stood before then to celebrate the grand occasion of the International Dussehra festival in the beautiful valley of Kullu”. He said that this festival was renowned for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance.
He said that Kullu's unique celebration, which had been an integral part of our cultural fabric for centuries, had not only preserved the essence of tradition but had also gained international recognition for its grandeur. "
The Governor said that the Kullu Dussehra, unlike other parts of India where the festival was celebrated for a day, extends for a week, making it a splendid display of our customs, art, and community spirit.
“The procession of deities, the vibrant fairs, and the enthusiastic participation of people from all walks of life highlight the deep bond that the people of Himachal Pradesh share with their spiritual and cultural heritage”, said Shukla.
He said that Himachal was known for its pristine beauty, and it was a collective responsibility to ensure that we keep our surroundings clean and protect our natural resources.
He said that there was no place for drugs in Dev-Bhoomi Himachal and everyone should come forward to weed it out from society to make a healthy environment in the state.
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