Mysuru’s Dazzling Vijayadashami Procession to Cap Iconic Dasara Festivities

The city of palaces is poised for a breathtaking Vijayadashami procession today, marking the grand culmination of the 11-day Mysuru Dasara, fondly known as ‘Nada Habba’ or the state festival. This annual celebration, steeped in Karnataka’s rich cultural and royal heritage, will feature the iconic ‘Jamboo Savari,’ a vibrant parade led by the majestic elephant Abhimanyu carrying the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari in a 750-kg golden howdah. The procession, expected to draw thousands of spectators, will showcase the splendor of Mysuru’s traditions, with cultural troupes and tableaux highlighting the state’s heritage.

The festivities commence with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah performing a ceremonial pooja to the Nandi flag between 1:00 pm and 1:18 pm during the auspicious ‘Dhanur Lagna’ at the Balarama Gate of the historic Amba Vilas Palace. The procession, spanning approximately five kilometers to Bannimantapa, will feature a dozen caparisoned elephants, accompanied by ‘Kumki’ elephants, and will be flagged off by the Chief Minister and dignitaries, including Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar, scion of the erstwhile Mysuru royal family, during the ‘Kumbha Lagna’ between 4:42 pm and 5:06 pm. The event, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil, will be marked by 21 cannon shots, with elaborate security and crowd management arrangements in place.

The Vijayadashami procession, a hallmark of Mysuru Dasara, traces its roots to the Vijayanagar rulers and was formalized by Raja Wadiyar I in 1610. Historically, the Mysuru king rode in the golden howdah, a tradition last upheld by Sri Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar. Today, the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari, the presiding deity of Mysuru, takes center stage in the intricately crafted howdah, adorned with 80 kg of gold. Alongside the procession, cultural highlights include the ‘Vajramushti Kalaga,’ a traditional wrestling duel, and the ‘Vijaya Yatra,’ led by Yaduveer Wadiyar to the Bhuvaneshwari Devi temple for a special pooja to the ‘Shami’ tree, preserving the royal family’s storied traditions.

Also Read: Mysuru Dasara to Begin Amid Celebration and Controversy over Inauguration

The 11-day Dasara festivities have illuminated Mysuru with the ‘Deepalankaara,’ where the palace, streets, and buildings are adorned with vibrant lights. The celebrations have featured a rich array of events, including cultural programs, a food mela, flower show, and specialized Dasara events for farmers, women, youth, and children. On Wednesday, the ‘Ayudha Pooja’ honored the royal family’s weapons, vehicles, and animals, while an airshow captivated crowds. The torchlight parade at Bannimantapa grounds this evening, with Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot as the chief guest, will add to the festive fervor.

Mysuru Dasara, a blend of spirituality and grandeur, reflects the legacy of the Wadiyar dynasty. After the abolition of the privy purse in 1971, the festival became a private affair until its revival as a grand public celebration in 1975 under Chief Minister D Devaraj Urs. The Navaratri rituals, including the ‘Khasagi Durbar’ conducted by Yaduveer Wadiyar on the golden throne, continue to enchant visitors. With its blend of royal heritage, cultural vibrancy, and public participation, Mysuru Dasara remains a timeless celebration of Karnataka’s identity and pride.

Also Read: PM Modi’s Heartfelt Mahalaya Wishes Usher in Durga Puja Festivities