Record-Breaking Drone Spectacle and Cultural Feast Draw Tourists to Mysuru Dasara

The Mysuru Dasara festival, a vibrant blend of ancient traditions and modern spectacles, has once again transformed the city into a cultural hub, attracting thousands from across India. Commencing on September 22, coinciding with Navratri, the ten-day celebration features everything from a record-breaking drone show to the iconic Jumboo Savari procession, enveloping Mysuru in a festive glow. The event, rooted in the 1610 CE celebration under Raja Wadiyar, commemorates Goddess Chamundeshwari’s triumph over the demon Mahishasura, weaving together religion, heritage, and community spirit.

A highlight of this year’s festivities was the Chamundeshwari Electricity Supply Corporation’s (CESC) Guinness World Record-breaking drone show on September 28 at Bannimantap’s Torchlight Parade ground. Using 2,983 drones—nearly double last year’s 1,500—the display formed dazzling images of a tiger, solar system, world map, peacock, and Goddess Chamundeshwari, captivating onlookers.

The main drone shows, scheduled for October 1-2, promise to elevate the spectacle further. The Torchlight Parade itself, a grand finale featuring synchronised police performances with flaming torches, acrobatics, and bike stunts, remains a major crowd-puller, showcasing Mysuru’s flair for blending tradition with modern entertainment.

The Jumboo Savari procession, another cornerstone, features Goddess Chamundeshwari’s idol atop a golden mandapa on a decorated elephant, accompanied by colourful tableaux, dance groups, music bands, and adorned elephants, horses, and camels. Starting from the Mysore Palace, illuminated nightly with 100,000 light bulbs from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., the procession culminates at Bannimantap, drawing throngs of devotees and tourists. Cultural events, including music and dance concerts, wrestling bouts, and bike parades, further enliven the city, making it a dynamic destination during Dasara.

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Adding to the allure is the unique bamboo biryani, prepared by Hunsur tribals. Priced at Rs 200-300 per plate, this delicacy involves marinated meat or vegetables layered with rice in a green bamboo tube, sealed with leaves, and cooked over an open fire or steamer, offering a distinctive culinary experience. From a 25-foot mural unveiling during Durga Puja to the grandeur of Mysore Palace, the festival’s mix of innovation and tradition ensures its status as a must-visit cultural extravaganza, captivating visitors year after year.

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