The Majestic Mysūru Daśarā 

The electrifying, reverberant, vibrant and culturally rich Mysūru Daśarā Festival is one of India's most anticipated celebrations, culminating in a grand finale after the Navarātri festivities. The festival commences with a special pūja at the Cāmuṇḍēśvari Temple, attended by the royal family and state officials.

Mysūru transforms into a dazzling spectacle with lights, colourful processions, and cultural performances. Over the centuries, the festival has evolved to incorporate diverse cultural events, entertainment, and timeless traditions, earning its reputation as Nada Habba (Karnataka's state festival).

With a legacy spanning over four centuries, Mysūru Daśarā originated during the Vijayanagara Dynasty and was later popularised by the Wodeyar dynasty in the 15th Century. The Wodeyars, devout followers of Goddess Cāmuṇḍēśvari, believed the festival honoured her victory over demon king Mahiśāsura, symbolising the triumph of good over evil.

Initially a royal celebration, the Daśara festival has evolved into a community-wide event attracting global tourists. The city becomes a cultural epicentre, showcasing Karṇāṭaka's rich heritage through classical and folk music and dance performances, poetry recitations, theatre and film festivals and Yuva Daśara (a platform for contemporary cultural performances). Despite its modern flavour, it ties into the overall theme of celebrating Mysūru’s cultural diversity and the energy of youth.

The Mysūru Palace hosts cultural performances every evening, illuminated with thousands of lights. The atmosphere is elegant and sophisticated, with families, tourists, and dignitaries attending the shows. The music of all the instruments and Carnatic/Hindustani vocals fills the air, while classical dancers in traditional attire captivate the audience with their graceful moves. Other venues include Jaganmohan Palace, Town Hall, Veene Sheshanna Bhavan, and Kalamandir.

Some of the famous events to which tourists from worldwide flock Mysore include:

• Navarātri Darbār Concerts featuring classical music and dance which will cover the compositions of Mysūru king, Śrī Jayacāmarājēndra Wodeyar and court musicians like Mysūru Vāsudēvācār & Harikēśanallūr Muttayya Bhāgavatar (Navarātri Compositions).

• Presenting Kāyau Śrī Gaurī, the official state anthem of the Mysūru kingdom, under the rule of the Wodeyar dynasty composed by Basavappā Śāstri, the court poet of the Mysūru Court.

• Daśarā flower show at Kuppannā Park.

• Āhara Mēla (culinary delights from Karṇāṭaka).

• Mahānavami Pūjā where the royal sword is worshipped.

The festival concludes with Jambu Savāri (Grand Procession) on Vijayadaśami, a majestic spectacle featuring decorated elephants with the central elephant carrying the golden howḍāḥ that bears the idol of the goddess. The streets of Mysūru will be lined with thousands of spectators, traditional dancers, musicians, and colorful floats, celebrating the cultural diversity of Karṇāṭaḳa. There is also the spectacular Torchlight Parade (Pañjina Kavayattu̱) at Bannimaṇṭap Grounds by the armed forces, cavalry, and police bands with an impressive & attractive torchlight display. Fireworks light up the night sky, adding to the festive ambiance.