Nearest Airport
Kota Airport (KTU)
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Rajasthan
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Nearest Airport
Kota Airport (KTU)
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Dussehra Fair 2026
The Dussehra Fair of Kota, popularly known as the Kota Dussehra Mela, is among the grandest and most celebrated festivals in Rajasthan. Scheduled to be held from 20 October to 6 November 2026, this iconic fair transforms the city of Kota into a vibrant cultural destination filled with devotion, festivities, folk traditions, and spectacular celebrations. Recognised as one of India’s most famous Dussehra celebrations, the fair symbolises the victory of good over evil through the legendary story of Lord Rama’s triumph over Ravana. What makes the Kota Dussehra Fair unique is its magnificent scale, royal legacy, and cultural richness that attract lakhs of visitors from across the country every year. The history of the Kota Dussehra Fair dates back to 1723 AD, during the reign of Mahrao Durjanshal Singh Hada. Initially celebrated through religious ceremonies and royal gatherings, the festival gradually evolved into one of Rajasthan’s largest cultural fairs. Later rulers of Kota expanded the celebrations, adding grandeur, elaborate processions, and cultural performances that continue to define the fair today. Today, the fair stands as an important cultural symbol of the Hadoti region and remains deeply connected to the traditions and royal heritage of Kota.
The highlight of the festival is the spectacular Ravana Dahan, where gigantic effigies of Ravana, Kumbhkarana, and Meghnad are set ablaze amidst fireworks and cheering crowds. Towering up to 75 feet and often even taller in recent years, these massive effigies are crafted with remarkable detail and stuffed with firecrackers that create a dramatic visual spectacle when ignited. The symbolic burning of Ravana represents the triumph of righteousness and truth over evil. Thousands gather at the Dussehra Ground to witness this unforgettable moment as chants of “Jai Shri Ram” echo through the air and fireworks illuminate the night sky.
Beyond the religious significance, the Kota Dussehra Fair is also a grand cultural festival. The fair hosts an exciting series of performances featuring folk artists, musicians, poets, qawwali singers, and cultural groups from across India. Programmes such as Kavi Sammelan, Bhajan Sandhya, Mushaira evenings, Rajasthani folk music and dance performances, and celebrity cultural nights add to the festive atmosphere. Colourful processions, decorated streets, traditional costumes, and festive markets create an energetic environment where visitors can experience the rich cultural spirit of Rajasthan. Villagers from nearby regions arrive dressed in vibrant attire, adding authenticity and local charm to the celebrations.
Venue
Dusshera Ground, Kota
Date
20 October 2026 to 6 November 2026
Organized By
District Administration, Kota
