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5. Bastar Dussehra, Chhattisgarh
Celebration Dates: August 12–October 22, 2026
Bastar Dussehra is one of India's most distinctive festival traditions. Centred in Jagdalpur, the celebration is connected with Maa Danteshwari, local deities, tribal traditions and the region's cultural heritage.
The festival lasts approximately 75 days and begins with Pat Jatra on August 12, before reaching its main Dussehra phase in October.
Key Dates and Events
- Aug 12 — Pat Jatra
- Oct 18 — Main Dussehra Phase Begins
- Oct 19 — Chariot and Ritual Celebrations
- Oct 20 — Bhitar Raini
- Oct 21 — Chariot Traditions Continue
- Oct 22 — Main Festival Phase
What Travellers Can Experience
Travellers can experience traditional chariot rituals, local deity traditions and Bastar's tribal cultural heritage during the main phase.
A major difference from conventional Dussehra is that Ravana is not burned in Bastar. The celebration focuses on Maa Danteshwari, local deities and the distinctive religious and cultural traditions of the region.
For travellers looking for a Dussehra experience rooted in tribal culture and regional traditions, the October 18–22 phase is particularly significant.
