Yesteryear's Mahisasurpura is today’s ‘Mysuru’ or’ Mysore’ and more popularly it is known as the “City of Palaces” of the Karnataka State. Even more popular is the Dasara Festival of the city, which is the state festival of the Karnataka. The festival is celebrated for ten days centering the prime palace of the city, the Mysore Palace. This year, the festival is from the 13th of October, 2015 to 23rd of October, 2015.
Celebration
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| Decorated Elephant in procession |
On the last day of the festival that is on 23rd of October, the Dasara Procession, also known as the Jamboo Savari, here moves out in the streets of Mysore. This procession comes out from the palace and strolls down through the city streets before it finally stops at the Bannimantap Grounds at Mysore. The goddess chamundeshwari’s idol on a golden throne is placed at the back of a decorated elephant. During this time of the year, before the winters, people gather here in large numbers to participate in the event. They sing, dance and perform with the rhythm of music. Besides the presence of several elephants, camels and horses splash a vibrant colour to the outset of the procession. In The Bannimantap Grounds, as the effigy of Ravana burns people celebrate the event in full spirit by lighting fire crackers. During this period of ten days the entire city and the palace glitter with dazzling lighting and illuminations. Besides, cultural programs are held in several other regions of the city as well. Moreover, the Dasara Exhibition located near the Mysore Palace is another attraction of the festival which lasts until the month of December.
The festival is celebrated with full enthusiasm since its inception in 1610. Even today the festival is celebrated here with same dignity and glory following the age-old traditions. At the front of the palace cultural programs are held. In Navaratri special puja is organised in the palace and at the Chamundadevi Temple. The locals participate in the festival and thus get painted with the colours of festivity.
Some other attractions of Mysore
If you travel to Mysore to participate in the festival or for a city tour, the best option would be to hire a car or an auto. The prime attractions in the Mysore City include the Mysore Palace, Daria Daulat Bagh, Gumrah, Jagmohan Art Gallery, St. Philomena’s Church, Mysore Zoo, etc. Alternatively, you may join the conducted tours of the Karnataka State Tourism Department. The link for the official website is www.Karnataka holidays.net/