Mysore Dasara

Mysore Dasara: A Grand Celebration of Tradition and Culture

Mysore Dasara, also known as Mysuru Dasara, is a vibrant 10-day festival celebrated in the state of Karnataka, India. It signifies the victory of good over evil and is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Chamundeshwari, who defeated the demon Mahishasura.

Quick Facts

When is it?: Usually falls in September or October
Tagged as: State festival of Karnataka
What’s the hashtag?: #MysoreDasara
When was it founded?: 1610
Who founded it?: Raja Wadiyar

History of Mysore Dasara

The origins of Mysore Dasara can be traced back to the Vijayanagara Empire in the 15th century. The festival gained prominence when Raja Wadiyar revived the celebrations in 1610 after founding the Kingdom of Mysore. Since then, it has evolved into a grand spectacle, blending religious traditions with cultural performances and royal pageantry.

Timeline

15th century: Earliest recorded celebration during Emperor Devaraya II’s reign
1610: Raja Wadiyar revives the festival in Mysore
1805: Krishnaraja Wodeyar III introduces the royal durbar tradition
2021: Efforts begin to obtain UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage tag

Mysore Dasara Dates

Year	Month and Date	Day
2025	October 2	Thursday
2026	September 21	Monday
2027	October 11	Monday
2028	September 29	Friday
2029	October 18	Thursday
2030	October 8	Tuesday

Observed Mysore Dasara

The festival is observed with great enthusiasm throughout Mysore city. The entire city is decorated and illuminated, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere. Various cultural programs, including wrestling matches, poetry recitals, and food festivals, are organized during this period.

The highlight of Mysore Dasara is the grand procession on Vijayadashami, the final day of the festival. This procession, known as Jumboo Savari, features a golden howdah carrying the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari atop a decorated elephant.

The Mysore Palace, illuminated with nearly 100,000 light bulbs, serves as a stunning backdrop for the festivities. The celebration concludes with a torch-light parade called Panjina Kavayatthu at the Bannimantap grounds.

Fun Facts About Mysore Dasara

The Mysore Palace is illuminated with approximately 100,000 light bulbs during the festival.
The golden howdah used in the procession weighs about 750 kilograms.
Mysore is named after the demon Mahishasura, who was defeated by Goddess Chamundeshwari.
The festival was once the most significant celebration in the Vijayanagara Empire.
In 2018, Mysore Dasara celebrated its 408th anniversary.

Quiz

What is the other name for Mysore Dasara?
How many days does the Mysore Dasara festival last?
Which goddess is worshipped during Mysore Dasara?
What is the name of the grand procession held on the final day of Mysore Dasara?
How many light bulbs are used to illuminate the Mysore Palace during the festival?

(Answers: 1. Nada Habba, 2. 10 days, 3. Goddess Chamundeshwari, 4. Jumboo Savari, 5. Approximately 100,000)

FAQs

Q: What is the significance of Mysore Dasara?
A: Mysore Dasara celebrates the victory of good over evil, commemorating Goddess Chamundeshwari’s triumph over the demon Mahishasura.

Q: When does Mysore Dasara typically take place?
A: The festival usually falls in September or October, coinciding with the Hindu calendar month of Ashvina.

Q: What are some key events during Mysore Dasara?
A: Key events include the illumination of Mysore Palace, cultural performances, exhibitions, and the grand Jumboo Savari procession on the final day.

Q: How long has Mysore Dasara been celebrated?
A: The festival has been celebrated since 1610 when it was revived by Raja Wadiyar, making it over 400 years old.

Q: Is Mysore Dasara open to tourists?
A: Yes, Mysore Dasara attracts thousands of tourists from all over the world who come to witness the grand celebrations.

Importance of Mysore Dasara

Mysore Dasara holds immense cultural, religious, and historical significance for the people of Karnataka. It serves as a reminder of the rich heritage and traditions of the region, showcasing the grandeur of the erstwhile Mysore kingdom.

The festival promotes tourism, boosting the local economy and providing a platform for artisans and performers to showcase their talents. It also fosters a sense of community and unity among people of different backgrounds who come together to celebrate.

Moreover, Mysore Dasara plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting traditional art forms, music, and dance, ensuring that these cultural treasures are passed on to future generations.