Mysuru Dasara to Begin Amid Celebration and Controversy over Inauguration

The historic palace city of Mysuru is aglow with anticipation as it prepares for the 11-day Dasara festival, Karnataka’s revered “Nada Habba” (state festival), running from September 22 to Vijayadashami on October 2. Rooted in a 415-year tradition dating back to 1610 under the Wadiyar dynasty, this year’s celebrations promise a vibrant showcase of Karnataka’s cultural heritage, illuminated palaces, and a controversial inauguration that has stirred public discourse.

The festivities commence on September 22 at 10:10 AM IST, when International Booker Prize winner Banu Mushtaq will inaugurate Dasara by showering flowers on the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari atop Chamundi Hills, accompanied by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and cabinet colleagues.

The decision to invite Mushtaq has sparked controversy, with BJP leaders and traditionalists questioning her selection after a viral video surfaced, allegedly showing her reservations about venerating the Kannada language as “Goddess Bhuvaneshwari.” Critics argue this choice disrespects the festival’s Vedic roots. Mushtaq has countered, claiming her remarks were misrepresented through selective editing. The Supreme Court’s refusal on Friday to intervene in the Karnataka High Court’s ruling upheld the state’s decision, clearing the way for her participation.

Organized by the Government of Karnataka since its revival in 1975 by then-Chief Minister D Devaraja Urs, Dasara has evolved from a royal affair into a public celebration. The city will dazzle with “Deepalankaara,” illuminating the Ambavilasa Palace, major streets, and landmarks. Over 1,000 artists from Karnataka and beyond will perform across platforms, with cultural events at the palace drawing crowds for performances by acclaimed national and state-level artists.

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Highlights include a food mela, flower show, Farmers’ Dasara, Women’s Dasara, Yuva Dasara, Children’s Dasara, and poetry recitals, catering to diverse audiences. The Indian Air Force’s Dasara Air Show, scheduled for September 27 and October 1 at Bannimantap Grounds, will feature breathtaking aerial displays. The iconic Jumboo Savari on October 2, led by elephant Abhimanyu carrying the 750 kg golden howdah with Goddess Chamundeshwari’s idol, will cap the festivities, alongside the Torch Light Parade and Mysuru Dasara Exhibition, drawing lakhs of tourists.

Household celebrations across Mysuru will include Gombe Habba (traditional doll displays), Saraswati Pooja, Ayudha Pooja, and Durga Pooja, reflecting deep-rooted traditions. The royal family, led by Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar, will uphold their legacy with the Khasagi Durbar, where Yaduveer ascends the golden throne amid Vedic chants, a private ritual echoing the festival’s royal origins under the Vijayanagar empire and Wadiyars.

With an expected footfall exceeding 10 lakh visitors, including international tourists, the Karnataka police have deployed over 5,000 personnel for security and crowd management, with CCTV surveillance and traffic diversions ensuring safety. The state has also introduced eco-friendly measures, such as biodegradable waste systems and solar-powered lighting, to align with sustainable tourism goals.

Despite the inauguration controversy, Mysuru’s Dasara remains a beacon of cultural unity, blending royal grandeur with modern inclusivity, poised to captivate the world with its splendor.

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