India marks Dasara burnings and Durga immersions | In pictures

This photo essay captures the vibrant preparations and celebrations of Durga Puja and Dasara across various Indian states. The images highlight the cultural significance of idol making, traditional performances, and community worship.
Why it matters
These festivals are central to Indian cultural identity and social cohesion, reflecting the diversity of regional traditions.
A new range of idols representing Lord Jagannath of Puri and dolls depicting scenes from the Ramayana are among the items on display at the sales-cum-exhibition organized by the Poompuhar showroom in Tiruchi, Tamil Nadu October 4, 2026.
Panghat Garba Group artists rehearsing in full festive swing at Rajwadu, Ahmedabad, ahead of Navratri 2026.
Panghat Garba Group artists put the finishing touches on their performance at Rajwadu Traditional Restaurant in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, ahead of the Navratri festival.
Idols of Goddess Durga are displayed for sale at a market in Hyderabad, Telangana, on October 5, 2026.
An artisan gives final touches to the idols of Goddess Durga at a workshop, in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh on October 7, 2026.
An artisan sprays paint on idols of Goddess Durga at Kumartuli, Kolkata’s historic potters’ quarter, as preparations for the Durga Puja festival.
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