New Delhi, October 14, 2026: The famous International Kullu Dussehra festival will be celebrated from October 21 to 27, 2026, in Kullu, Himachal Pradesh. The festival will be inaugurated by Governor Shri Kavinder Gupta on October 21, while Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu will preside over the closing ceremony on October 27. A curtain raiser ceremony for the prestigious festival was organised in New Delhi on Wednesday to promote the event and highlight the rich cultural heritage of Himachal Pradesh.
Addressing the gathering, Shri Sundar Singh Thakur, MLA and Chairman of the International Kullu Dussehra Organising Committee, said that elaborate preparations were underway to make this year’s festival grand and memorable. He stated that the Global Dance event, Drone Show and Laser Show would be among the major attractions of the seven-day celebration.
Highlighting the significance of the International Dance Festival, Shri Thakur said that it would be a major highlight of the event, showcasing the diverse cultures of participating countries alongside the vibrant folk dances of Himachal Pradesh. Around 12 countries, including Thailand, Egypt, Uzbekistan, Russia, Kazakhstan and the USA, have confirmed their participation, while representatives from as many as 24 countries are expected to take part.
He informed that the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) would serve as the cultural partner for the festival, while the North Zone Cultural Centre (NZCC) and South Zone Cultural Centre (SZCC) would also contribute to the cultural programmes.
Speaking about the historical significance of Kullu Dussehra, Shri Thakur said that the festival’s traditions date back to the 17th century. Kullu is widely known as Dev Bhoomi, or the Land of Gods, because of the deep-rooted presence and worship of local deities in the region. He added that invitations had been sent to 346 local deities for this year’s celebrations.
Shri Thakur further stated that the Chief Minister had directed the authorities to organise the festival on a grand scale. Accordingly, efforts were being made not only to improve the quality of events but also to expand the overall celebrations. In keeping with the traditions of previous years, the seven-day festival would feature stalls set up by various government departments and organisations. Local sports competitions and the Nasha Mukti Abhiyan (anti-drug campaign) would also form important parts of the programme.
Explaining the purpose of organising the curtain raiser ceremony in New Delhi, he said that the initiative aimed to create wider awareness about the festival across the country. The event provides an opportunity for visitors to experience the rich cultural heritage of Himachal Pradesh, enjoy colourful performances by international artists and explore local products, including handicrafts and woollen garments.
Inviting people from across the country to visit Kullu, Shri Thakur said that the festival offered a unique opportunity to witness the region’s vibrant traditions, cultural diversity and hospitality.
Principal Resident Commissioner Ajay Yadav and Deputy Resident Commissioner Mayank Sharma were also present on the occasion.