Former Minister Satya Prakash Thakur greets people on International Kullu Dussehra.

Kullu:

Former minister and Chairman of Bhuttico Kullu, Satya Prakash Thakur, has extended greetings to the people on the occasion of the International Kullu Dussehra, which commenced from October 21 and will continue for seven days.

In his message, Thakur said that the festival is celebrated with great fervour by the residents of Kullu, Lahaul-Spiti and adjoining areas. He said that around 365 deities are invited by the Dussehra Committee and the gathering takes the form of a Kumbh of deities, with the court of Lord Raghunath being the centre of attraction. The festival begins with the auspicious Rath Yatra, where the Governor of Himachal Pradesh is the chief guest.

He informed that Lord Raghunath’s camp is set up at Dhalpur ground where prayers are held, and on the seventh day, Lanka Dahan is performed as per local rituals, without burning effigies. On the sixth day, Devta Mohalla is held where all deities assemble near Lord Raghunath.

Thakur credited late Lal Chand Prarthi for giving modern form to Kullu Dussehra and promoting Kulluvi Nati at international level.

He said Kullu’s art, culture, attire, caps and handloom, especially Kullu shawls, have earned global recognition. He recalled that Bhuttico was registered in 1944 and has now gained international fame.

He also acknowledged the contribution of erstwhile Bushahr State in enriching Himachal’s woodcraft and textile art.

Thakur appealed to people to visit Bhuttico’s stall at the Dussehra festival.