Shoe Row Mars Sacred Start of Kullu Dussehra
Kullu, Oct 2: The world-famous Kullu Dussehra got off to a stormy start at Dhalpur Maidan today after a Tehsildar walked into the Devasthan camp wearing shoes — a ritual taboo in Devbhumi.
Angry devlus dragged him out of the shivir, forcing an apology. Even the palanquins of local devtas, carried on Devraths, were seen swaying in protest as devotees expressed their fury.
Ironically, this showdown came just as the Rath Yatra of Lord Raghunath — the heart of the week-long international festival — was set to roll out.
The majestic Rath of Lord Raghunath will be pulled onto the Dhalpur Maidan today around 4 pm, marking the formal start of celebrations. Over 332 deities have already reached the historic maidan.
The Governor is the chief guest, but the festivities remain low-key this year due to the monsoon devastation in the valley.
Why it matters: History of Kullu Dussehra
Dating back to the 17th century, the festival began when Raja Jagat Singh brought the idol of Lord Raghunath from Ayodhya and declared him the reigning deity of Kullu Rupi state.
Since then, all village devtas have been bound to attend the festival in a grand congregation that continues for seven days after Vijayadashami.
Unlike other parts of India where effigies are burnt, here the highlight is the assembly of gods and the rolling of Lord Raghunath’s Rath, making Kullu Dussehra one of the most unique cultural festivals in the world.
Today’s shoe controversy may seem small, but in a land where rituals are centuries old, it struck at the very heart of faith.
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