India, Oct. 20 -- As people across India mark Dussehra on Tuesday (October 20) with Ramlila performances and the burning of Ravana effigies, a very different celebration is unfolding in Chhattisgarh. In Bastar, Dussehra is not associated with Lord Rama's victory over Ravana. Instead, the region honours Goddess Danteshwari through a series of elaborate rituals and processions stretching over approximately 75 days.

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Centred in Jagdalpur, Bastar Dussehra brings together tribal communities, local deities and centuries-old traditions, making it one of the country's most distinctive festivals.

According to Incredible India, the Ministry of Tourism's offi...