Mysuru Dasara Festivities Inaugurated by Booker Prize Winner Banu Mushtaq
The renowned 11-day Mysuru Dasara, Karnataka's official 'state festival', commenced with an inauguration by International Booker Prize-winning author Banu Mushtaq. The writer launched the festivities by showering flowers on the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari atop the Chamundi Hills. The grand celebration, which showcases Karnataka's rich cultural heritage and royal traditions, is expected to draw large crowds and will culminate with the 'Vijayadashami' procession on October 2.
Unpacked:
Goddess Chamundeshwari, a form of Durga, is revered for defeating the demon Mahishasura. She is considered the protector of Mysuru, and the festival celebrates her victory, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. The city's name, Mysuru, is linked to Mahishasura, making her worship central to Dasara traditions.
Major events include cultural performances, music and dance shows, exhibitions, a royal durbar at Mysore Palace, illumination of the palace, sporting competitions, and the spectacular 'Jumboo Savari' procession featuring decorated elephants and the idol of Chamundeshwari.
Mysuru Dasara originated during the Vijayanagara Empire in the 14th-15th centuries, later adapted by the Wodeyar dynasty. It began as a royal celebration and evolved into a public, state-sponsored festival blending religious, cultural, and royal traditions, continuing even after the monarchy ended.
The festival is celebrated grandly due to its historical association with the Wodeyar royalty, the city's identity linked to Mahishasura, and its status as Karnataka's official state festival. It symbolizes both religious devotion and royal heritage, making it distinctively elaborate in Mysuru.