Celebrating Dussehra in Mysore

Mysore is the second largest district in Karnataka and covers an area of 128 square kilometers. It is around 146 kilometers from the state capital, Bangalore and is located at the foot of the Chamundi Hills. Till 1947 it was the capital of the Kingdom of Mysore. The Wodeyar dynasty contributed immensely to its cultural structures and played a significant role in earning the title, “Cultural Capital of Karnataka” for Mysore. Some of its artistic splendours such as the Mysore Palace still shine in their glory.

The Mysore Palace is the biggest landmark, located in the heart of the city. At night the city glistens radiating power and majesty. Besides the palace, the Krishnarajasagar dam. St. Philomena’s Church and the Mysore Zoo are some popular places to visit. Historical archives of the city are stored in museums like the Regional Museum of Natural History, the Folk Lore Museum and the specially designed Railway Museum. Mysore is a heritage city and is known for its quiet streets and kind hearted people.

Mysore Palace in Dasara, Mysore (photo courtesy: newsonair.nic.in)

A lit up Mysore Palace, the epicenter of all Dasara (photo courtesy: wikipedia)

a prism of the past in water, Mysore palace (photo courtesy: Karnataka Photo News)

Over 800,000 people reside in Mysore and use Kannada as their primary language. The extravagant celebrations of various festivals can be attributed to the fact that Hinduism is the most popular religion.

The Mysore Dasara festival, celebrated in the month of October involves a citywide merriment and joyous activities that stretch for ten days. 9 days are part of Navratri during which there are traditional music concerts, dance programmes and various other activities . The festival culminates on the tenth day, Vijayadashami with the victory of truth. It symbolises the triumph of good over evil and restores faith in the countless devotees of Goddess Chamundeshwari. Legend has it that she slew the demon, Mahishasur, which is the origin for the name of the city. The Jamboo Savari is the procession held on this day with thousands of followers chanting.

Dussehra procession in Mysore (photo courtesy: anubimb)

Dussehra procession in Mysore (photo courtesy: anubimb)

Celebrating Dussehra in Mysore (photo courtesy: livingincolors)

The occasion is recognized as a state festival or Nada Habba, when the royal family performs a special pooja and is deeply involved in the city’s activities. During Dasara, the city comes to life with the Mysore Palace illuminated and glimmering in the darkness of the night. The Karnataka Exhibition Association organises the famous exhibition during Dasara opposite the Mysore Palace. It also features games like the ferris wheel and creates a carnival conglomeration of the people of Mysore.

Mysore flights are inexpensive and easily available from Bangalore, Chennai, Mumbai etc. The airport is less than half an hour from the main city making it easily accessible.