Mysore Dasara Festival

Mysore Dasara Festival - A Dazzling Socio-cultural Event

The Festival that celebrates the grandeur of the City's royal heritage! In the city of Mysore, Dussehra accolades the Goddess Chamundeswari, who slew the demon Mahishasur. Mysore Dasara is the ‘Naada Habba’ or State festival of Karnataka. According to Hindu mythology, the event celebrates the victory of Goddess Chamundeshwari after killing the demon Mahishasura and the victory of good over evil. The floats, band units and armed guards can be seen during the time. The traditional articles from the royal family are also on display to the audience.

Time of the Festival

Unlike other parts of India where Dussehra is celebrated for only one day, in Mysore it is celebrated during all 10 days of the Navaratri festival. According to the lunar calender, it is celebrated each year in the mid of October. Events take place at different locations throughout the city but the main attraction is the Mysore Palace.

Procession

Held on the last day of the festival, a traditional Dussehra procession makes its way through the streets of Mysore. The procession is also known as Jumboo Savari. Starting from Mysore Palace, the procession ends in Bannimantap. The event also features an idol of the Goddess Chamundeshwari, which is carried on the top of a splendidly adorned elephant. There is a torch-light parade at the Bannimantap grounds on the outskirts, proceeding in the evening.

Celebration

Mysore Palace is stunningly illuminated by about 100,000 light bulbs during the festival.
Various dance and music performances add appeal to the event. A food festival, heritage walk, film festival, wrestling competition and sightseeing are added attractions.

Highlights

Dussehra exhibition also starts during the festival and lasts for three months. The stalls selling various types of handicrafts, clothing, games and amusement rides. The Doddakere Maidan Exhibition ground serves as the venue for stalls. Other highlights encompass fireworks, a laser show and daredevil stunts on motorcycles.

Feast your Eyes with Cultural Richness of Mysore at Dasara festivities!