Ten days of festivities celebrating the victory of good over evil recently culminated in the Hindu festival of Dussehra.
While Dussehra is celebrated all over India, the biggest festivities are held in Mysuru. The festival offers a range of memorable experiences, from a procession of colorfully decorated elephants to modern displays such as a drone show.
Dussehra coincides with two other festivals, Navratri and Durga Puja, with Dussehra marking the end of their celebrations, according to Britannica. The name comes from the Sanskrit words dasha, ‘ten’, and hara, ‘defeat’.
For some, the day commemorates the defeat of Ravana by the deity Rama, while others celebrate Durga’s victory over Mahishasura.
Video footage and photos captured this year’s event in Mysuru show why it is one of India’s – and the world’s – most remarkable festivals.
The elephant parade was particularly notable as the majestic animals navigated the busy streets of the city, accompanied by floats, dancers and performers.
The animals added a sense of grandeur to the celebration.
According to The Associated PressAbhimanyu, a 58-year-old elephant, had the honor of carrying the idol of Chamundeshwari, also known as Durga, the Hindu goddess. Chamundeshwari is worshiped as the chief deity of the Wadiyar royal family, which once ruled Mysore, the former name of Mysuru.
Besides the procession, other notable events took place across the city, including the illumination of the Mysore Palace with around 100,000 lights, according to The Associated Press, creating a breathtaking spectacle.
Although Dussehra is rooted in ancient traditions, it has incorporated modern elements, such as a drone show, into its celebrations.
Other parts of India also put up special displays to celebrate Dussehra.
According to The Indian ExpressIn northern India, areas such as Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Madhya Pradesh stage theater performances that dramatize Rama’s victory over Ravana, known as Ramleela.