Summerhill Dussehra grows beyond festivity, takes on Drug abuse

himachalscape October 20, 2026 3 minutes read

Summerhill Dussehra grows beyond festivity, takes on Drug abuse

Shimla, Oct 20,

“We take an oath that we will continue fighting drug abuse, prevent its spread and not allow this social evil to destroy our youth and families. We will stand united until drugs are driven out of our society.”

This pledge read by a Summehill resident and a senior High court advocate Sanjeev Bhushan from the stage captures the spirit of Summerhill’s annual Dussehra celebration, which has grown from a neighbourhood gathering into one of Shimla’s prominent festive events through community participation and collective effort.

Organised by the Sports, Cultural and Welfare Society, Summerhill, the more-than-decade-old celebration drew an estimated more than 1,000 people this year. Its growing stature was evident in 2025, when Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu attended the event.

With towering effigies of Ravana, Meghnad and Kumbhkaran, the festival brings together families, students and residents from neighbouring localities. Himachal Pradesh University (HPU) provides the ground, while funds are raised through contributions from surrounding areas, keeping the celebration rooted in community support.

Beyond traditional Dussehra rituals, the event features sporting and recreational activities, including cross-country races, three-legged races and musical chairs, informed Virender Thakur, Councillor of the area. Around ten food stalls serving tea, coffee, samosas and golgappas add to the festive atmosphere.

More than a festive gathering

For the society, Dussehra is also an opportunity to address social concerns. Through its sporting, cultural and welfare activities, it seeks to bridge social divisions and bring people together. Its campaign against drug abuse places particular emphasis on protecting young people from substance abuse and encouraging healthier pursuits stated Rajeev Thakur a former councillor in his public address

The society’s efforts have also drawn attention to the need for community infrastructure. During his visit in 2025, Chief Minister Sukhu announced a grant of Rs 1 crore for a community hall in Summerhill, of which Rs 30 lakh has been released, informed Sanjeev Bhushan.

As the organisers greet Shimla Mayor Surinder Chauhan as this year’s chief guest, Summerhill’s Dussehra stands as an example of how local initiative can create a lasting public celebration without relying entirely on government funding.

Also read Two centuries old Vijat Maharaj’s temple celebrates Shand festival at Khadah

What began as a neighbourhood gathering has become a fixture on Shimla’s festive calendar, combining tradition, sport and social awareness. For the organisers, however, the larger purpose goes beyond celebrating the victory of good over evil: it is about building a united community and sustaining the fight against drugs throughout the year.