Mysore Dasara 2024: India’s Most Iconic Festival!

Mysore Dasara is a 10-day royal festival celebrated in Mysore, Karnataka. While many states in India celebrate Navratri, Mysore celebrates its state festival, known as “Nadahabba or Nada Habba”. During this festival, the entire city is brightened with colourful lights, bringing an exuberant vibe. So, let’s proceed further to see how the city prepares for Mysore Dasara 2024. 

Mysore Dasara 2024 Date and Time 

• Start Date: 3rd October, 2024 (Thursday)
• Start Time: 09:00 AM 
• End Date: 12th October, 2024 (Saturday) 

Mysore Dasara Festival and Its Symbolism 

Mysore Dasara is a state festival in Mysore, Karnataka, which is very dear to the local people and the royal families of Mysore. The 10-day festival, celebrated during Navratri and ending with Vijayadashami, honours the Goddess Chamundeshwari. She is the protector of Mysuru city and has killed the demon Mahishasura on Chamundi Hill.

Moreover, the word Mysore is actually named “mysooru,” derived from the word “Mahishur” or “Mahishasurana Ooru,” meaning the City of Mahishasura in Kannada. This festival celebrates the victory of Goddess Durga in the form of Chamundeshwari, which symbolises good over evil. So, if you are witnessing Mysore Dasara 2024, here’s all you need to know. 

Also Read: Mahalaya Amavasya 2024: The End of Pitra Paksha!

History Behind the Celebration of Mysore Dussehra Festival 

The Vijayanagar Empire kings started celebrating Mysore Dasara in the 15th century. However, after the fall of the Vijayanagar Kingdom, the Wodeyars of Mysore began to continue their legacy by celebrating this grand festival. Also, during the rule of Krishnaraja Wodeyars III in 1805, they celebrated this festival among the royal families in the regal assembly in Mysore Palace. 

Moreover, to maintain its gloriousness and vibrancy, the public celebrated the festival after the state government revived it in the 1970s. The common public celebrates this festival in Srirangapatna, the capital state of Mysore. However, Jayaprakash Narayan (Indian politician, theorist, and independence activist) declared Mysore Dussehra the State Festival of Karnataka.

The Celebration of Mysore Dasara in Karnataka 

Here, we will highlight the rituals and traditions associated with the Mysore Dussehra festival and look at some of the most exciting events and experiences that make Mysore Dasara 2024 a must-visit. 

1. Inauguration, Puja and a Cultural Event

The festival of Mysore Dasara 2024 will start with worshipping and honouring Goddess Chamundi. It will then begin with cultural events, which include traditional dance and music to represent its cultural heritage. Many famous artists will join together to add spark to this festival. 

2. Folk arts and Folklore

During this state festival, performers showcase unique forms of singing, drama, dance, and puppet shows that represent the state’s culture and legacy. The state’s famous folk groups perform all these in the streets of Mysore. 

However, some unique performances and folk arts are Pooja kunitha, Dollu Kunitha (men of the Kuruba community), Beesu Kamsale and Kamsale Nritya, Somana Kunita (mask dance) and Somana Kunitha (representation of worshipping of the Grama Devate). 

3. Mysore Palace Light Show 

If you visit Mysore Dasara 2024, the light show of Mysore Palace is a must-visit. This light show reflects the rich cultural history and magnificent architecture of Mysore. Moreover, this palace is located in the city’s heart and is the residence of the kingdom of Mysore. 

During its state festival, illuminated bulbs adorn the palace, reflecting its true beauty. During the nine days of Dussehra, it is decorated with 100,000 light bulbs and is open for visitors from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. 

4. Elephant Procession (Jamboo Savari) 

Jamboo Savari is another exciting event or procession to witness during the Mysore festival. The Mahouts train the elephants to march on the city of Mysore. This procession takes place on the tenth day of Vijayadashami, on which the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari is placed on top of the decorated elephant. 

Moreover, the idol is first placed at the top of the golden mantapa, decorated with around 750 kgs of gold, and then placed on the elephant. The elephant and the people march around the city, spreading joy and excitement. 

5. Cultural Exhibition 

You can witness traditional dance performances, music concerts, art and craft stalls and food festivals. Moreover, you can also experience various cultural shows spotlighting the legacy of Mysore and Karnataka. 

Furthermore, Mysore’s people mainly introduced these exhibitions to showcase their recent inventions and expansions. Also, the Karnataka Exhibition Authority took over the organisation of the exhibitions in 1987.

6. Torch Light Parade

The Torchlight Parade, also known as “Panjina Kavayatthu,” takes place on the evening of Vijayadashami. The Mysore Dasara torchlight parade timings are from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., which will be held on Bannimantap Ground. During this parade, different cultural and military organisations participate. 

Moreover, the parade starts with the chief guest lighting a torch. Then, the procession begins with beautifully decorated tableaux, elephants, horses, camels, cultural actors, and the performances of various military bands. The parade is the march past performed by the armed forces, showcasing their discipline. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

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