Nagpur Dussehra 2026: 75th Mahotsav Kicks Off at Kasturchand Park with Festival Office Inauguration
Nagpur’s most iconic Dussehra celebration has officially begun its countdown. The Nagpur Dussehra 2026 Kasturchand Park festivities were set in motion on October 13 with the inauguration of the Dussehra Mahotsav festival office at Kasturchand Park. This year’s event is particularly special as it marks the 75th consecutive Dussehra Mahotsav organised by the Sanatan Dharma Yuvak Sabha — making it the Amrit Mahotsav of one of Nagpur’s most beloved annual traditions.
Who Inaugurated the Festival Office?
The festival office inauguration ceremony was held at Kasturchand Park in the presence of former Mayor Dayashankar Tiwari and Punit Poddar, President of Shri Poddareshwar Ram Mandir. Worship rituals for the occasion were performed by Pandit Anil Tiwari.
Addressing the gathering, former Mayor Dayashankar Tiwari described the historic Dussehra Festival as a matter of pride for Nagpur. He said celebrating its Amrit Mahotsav was a distinct honour for the entire city. An attractive 12-page invitation booklet for the 75th edition was also released during the inauguration programme.
What Is Special About the 75th Edition?
The 75th Dussehra Mahotsav at Kasturchand Park carries special significance for Nagpur. Sanatan Dharma Yuvak Sabha has been organising this grand celebration uninterruptedly for 75 years. The tradition was started by Hemraj Singh Binwar and has grown from a modest neighbourhood celebration into one of the largest Dussehra events in central India.
The Amrit Mahotsav milestone is being marked with enhanced cultural programming, special ceremonies, and a larger-than-usual invitation campaign. Senior Vice-President Milan Sahni shared details about a Hanuman Chalisa recitation that has been specially planned as part of this year’s celebrations.
What Programmes Are Planned at Kasturchand Park?
The Dussehra Mahotsav at Kasturchand Park is known for combining a grand Ravan Dahan with a full cultural programme. Raas Garba performances and Dhol Pathak are regular features that draw large audiences every year.
The main highlight remains the burning of the effigy of Demon King Ravan on Vijayadashami. Kasturchand Park’s Ravan effigy is traditionally 60 feet tall, making it the tallest effigy in central India. The effigies of Kumbhkarna and Meghnad accompany the main Ravan effigy each year. The event attracts tens of thousands of spectators from across Nagpur and neighbouring areas.
Why Is Kasturchand Park the Heart of Nagpur’s Dussehra?
Kasturchand Park holds a unique place in Nagpur’s cultural life. The ground has hosted events, fairs, and public gatherings for over a century. Its central location in the heart of Nagpur makes it the natural focal point for the city’s biggest public celebrations.
The annual Dussehra celebration at this venue has become deeply woven into the identity of Nagpur. For tens of thousands of families across the city, attending the Ravan Dahan at Kasturchand Park is an annual tradition passed down through generations. The 75th edition this year carries the weight of all those decades of shared celebration.
How Was the Inauguration Programme Conducted?
The programme was conducted by Narendra Satija. Sanatan Dharma Yuvak Sabha President Vinay Oberai proposed the vote of thanks. A large number of families attended the inauguration event. The release of the 12-page invitation booklet was received enthusiastically by the audience, with many families requesting additional copies to share with relatives and friends.
The Dussehra Mahotsav committee for the 75th edition has been constituted and is already working on the final preparations for the main event, which will be held on Vijayadashami in October 2026.
