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New Delhi: Almost every Indian festival is the same in spirit but different in names and rituals. Kulasai Dussehra is one such festival celebrated in Tamil Nadu. Also known as Kulasai Dasara, it is a cult rural festival celebrated during the famous Dussehra festival time in the 300-year-old Sri Mutharaman Temple situated in Thoothukudi District’s tiny town Kulasekharapatnam, near Thiruchendur. The festival continues for ten days, starting with Navratri and finishing on the tenth day.
Kulasai Dussehra is celebrated in honour of Goddess Mutharamman, a fierce form of Goddess Kali, who killed the demon called Magisasuran. Unlike the Dussehra celebrated in North India, where Lord Rama’s triumph over Ravan is the focus, Kulasai Dasara centres around the power of Goddess Mutharamman. It usually falls in the Tamil month of Purattasi, which is around September or October. Scroll down to explore more about this festival.
Here are the unique rituals which make this festival famous.
1. Vesam
The tradition of dressing up in disguises, known as Vesham, is one of the main reasons Kulasai Dasara is so famous. Many devotees dress up as gods, goddesses, demons, and mythical characters, each with an amazing costume, as an act of gratitude towards the goddess. Every detail of their costume reflects their chosen character. This makes the festival vibrant and unique, as the streets are filled with people in all kinds of disguises.
2. Trance state
Many devotees enter a trance state when they dance and speak differently. It is believed to be a form of “divine possession” as if a deity is speaking through them. People pay respect and seek blessings from these “possessed” devotees.
3. Firewalking
Firewalking rituals are one of the important rituals on the last day of the festival. People walk over burning coals with pure faith in the goddess for their protection.
4. Goddess Mutharamman’s procession
Kulasai Dasara culminates in the procession of Goddess Mutharamman and Lord Ganesha idols. Decorated with vibrant and fresh flowers and beautiful ornaments, these idols are taken through the village on a large chariot. The enthusiastic villagers pull the chariot, chant prayers, and play traditional music.
5. Cultural performances
Traditional Tamil dances like Parai Attam and Oyilattam are performed throughout the festival. Performers use drums, cymbals, and other instruments, creating a lively rhythm.
Kulasai Dasara is truly a unique festival that displays the colourful costumes, intense rituals, and powerful energy. Experiencing Kulasai Dasara provides you with a glimpse of Tamil Nadu’s rich cultural heritage; you won’t forget it for a lifetime!
