The festival of Mysuru Dasara, also known as Mysore Dasara, a ten-day extravaganza, is set to commence with a grandeur of lights, enthusiasm and excitement. It is celebrated with great splendour and zeal across Karnataka, mainly in Mysuru. The grand festival celebrates Goddess Chamundeshwari’s victory over demon king Mahishasura. The 10-day festival begins on the first day of Navratri and culminates with the grand celebrations of Vijayadashami.
During these 10 days, the city comes alive with music, dance, processions, exhibitions and food stalls. Visitors are treated to a view of the beautifully illuminated Mysore Palace, with the famed Golden Throne displayed in the Durbar Hall.
One of the main highlights of the festival is the Jambu Savari, or elephant parade, where the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari is majestically carried atop an elephant. Mysore Dasara celebrations will commence on October 3 and conclude on October 12.
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As the state is bracing to celebrate the auspicious occasion, let us take a look at the date, history and significance, rituals, celebrations, and how to reach the city before the festival starts.
Mysore Dasara 2024: Date And Significance
This year, Mysore Dasara celebrations will start on October 3 and end on Vijayadashami Day on October 12.
The 10-day festival is celebrated to honour Goddess Chamundeshwari in her warrior form. Over the past several decades, the city has significantly transformed, bringing together culture, entertainment and timeless traditions.
The Historical And Cultural Importance Of Mysore Dasara
Mysuru Dasara is celebrated with much great show and pomp since its inception by the Vijaynagar Dynasty in the 16th century. The history of this festival dates back to 1610 when Raja Wadiyar revived the festivities. As per Hindu beliefs, this festival also holds great significance, as it is believed that Goddess Chamundeshwari (a form of Goddess Parvati) of the Chamunda Hills defeated Mahishasura (a buffalo-headed asura).
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It is noteworthy that Mysuru’s name is derived from the word “Mahishur,” which translates to the town of Mahishasura in Kannada. Through the years, Mysuru Dasara has transformed significantly, integrating diverse cultures, entertainment functions, procession and forging timeless traditions.
Key Rituals And Events Of Mysore Dasara 2024
- The festivity, marked by vibrant colours and grandeur, commences with a pooja performed in the presence of the royal family and state officials at Goddess Chamundeshwari Temple on the Chamundi Hills.
- The occasion brings the entire Mysuru community together, and the festivities are enjoyed with great fervour.
- But the celebrations aren’t limited to traditional rituals.
- The occasion is marked by three processions, and the Vijayadashami grand parade serves as the climax and main highlight of those processions.
- The first procession is on Maha Navami Day, where the royal sword is revered. It is a fascinating show with dancers, horses, elephants, camels, and others participating joyfully.
- The biggest crowd is drawn on the final day by a traditional procession called ‘Jumbo Savari.’
- The procession carried from the illuminated palace to Bannimantapa grounds, features the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari seated on a splendid golden pedestal over an elephant. It includes dance troupes, large bands, armed forces, etc. The ‘gold mantapa’ over which the deity is seated is likely to weigh over 750 kg.
- After the procession, a torchlight parade called ‘Panjina Kavayatthu’ begins. It is scheduled for the evening of Vijayadashami to conclude the festivities with a spectacular finish.
Mysore Dasara 2024: How To Reach
One must not worry, as Mysuru is well connected by train, road and air routes. There are numerous ways to reach the place for the 10-day festival. However, if you are unable to access any direct flight to the city, you can fly to Bengaluru and then take a cab or bus to Mysuru, depending on what suits your needs.
By Air
Fly to Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru. Take a cab to Mysuru. It will take around 3 hours to reach the city.
By Train
One of the fastest options is to take a direct train from Chennai or Bengaluru. The Shatabdi Express takes 2 hours from Bengaluru and 7 from Chennai.
By Road
Look for bus services that operate to Mysuru. Start from one of the main bus terminals in Bengaluru, such as:
- Majestic Bus Station (Kempegowda Bus Station)
- Shanthinagar Bus Station
- Yeshvantpur Bus Station
Book your tickets in advance to avoid crowds. The journey typically takes about 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic and the type of bus service.
Mysore Dasara 2024: Celebrations
Mysore Dasara celebrations depict the liveliness of the city. The entire city gets decked for the 10-day celebration of Dasara to celebrate the victory of good over evil. Also known as Nada Habba in Mysore, the visuals of the annual event are a sight to behold.
Prior to the celebrations, several elephants arrive in batches to Mysuru from Veeranahosahalli in Karnataka. They march across the city as part of ‘Gajapayana’ as well as Jumbo Savari on Vijayadashami.
The Mysore Palace is also illuminated with 100,000 light bulbs throughout the 10-day period. During these 10 days, many cultural and religious programs of Karnataka are also performed at the palace.
Apart from the procession, locals and visitors can also take part in various activities held during the festival, such as cycling, yoga, film festivals, heritage tours, treasure hunts, and pet shows. Food stalls are also set up for visitors to indulge in local delicacies.
Famous Attractions During Mysore Dasara
While it is undeniable that the entire city becomes a sight to behold during the state festival, there are a few places that attract a massive crowd every year. With its stunning decorations and lighting, the Mysore Palace is a must-visit during the festival.
Similarly, Chamundi Hills is a vital part of the festival, holding the Chamundeshwari Temple atop. Visiting the site during the 10 days can be a great spiritual experience for both pilgrims and tourists.
Around 12 km away from Mysuru, the Brindavan Garden spans across 60 acres of land and offers a lush green view to visitors.
Those looking forward to taking a break from the festivities can enjoy a peaceful time at St. Philomena’s Cathedral, which offers an excellent display of Gothic architecture and the region’s rich heritage.
To sum it all up, visitors can enjoy the Dasara celebrations while also visiting these popular tourist sites during their Mysuru trip.
FAQs About Mysore Dasara 2024
Best time to visit Mysuru during the Dasara festival?
For the festival, one should plan their trip in September or October, in line with the dates.
How long do the celebrations last?
The Mysuru Dasara celebrations last for a total of 10 days.
Is Mysore Palace open during Dasara?
It is lit up regularly with around 1 lakh lights and is open for visitors.
When to book tickets to Mysuru for Dasara?
Visitors should book their tickets and hotels in advance, as there is a great rush at the time of the festival.
What are the dos and don’ts for Mysore Dasara?
- One shouldn’t miss the Dasara exhibition, which is held on a grand scale every year.
- Always carry a printed copy of the city map.
- Can reach out to nearby establishments for assistance rather than a stranger.
- When in the temple, visitors can look for special entrance tickets to avoid long queues.
- It is recommended to travel mostly by foot or local transport to avoid parking problems.
- If you’re shopping at local stalls, be fair when bargaining, as vendors also rely on festival sales.
- Follow any safety instructions provided by authorities, especially during crowded events or parades.
10 Basic Kannada Words You Should Know
Familiarising yourself with some basic Kannada words can make your experience smoother and help you communicate better with locals. Here we have curated a list of words for you to know before the trip:
- Namaskara: Hello
- Kannada Gottilla: I don’t understand Kannada
- Beda: No
- Eevu Inglish Mathanadutthida: Do you speak English?
- Jaasti: More
- Saku: Enough
- Esṭu?: How much?
- Hegiddera?: How are you?
- Shubha Dinagavali: Have a good day!
- Estu dura ide (name of the place)?: How far is (name of the place)?
