Mysuru: The Mysuru Dasara festival, renowned both nationally and internationally, once again captivated hearts with its grandeur. On Thursday evening, the iconic Jumboo Savari procession unfolded spectacularly under a golden hue despite intermittent drizzle. As the procession began in the scorching sun, clouds occasionally gathered, showering light rain, yet the enthusiasm of lakhs of spectators remained undampened as they gazed in awe at the Ambari and the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari.
For the sixth time, the elephant Abhimanyu carried the 750-kg golden Ambari, adorned with the festival idol of Chamundeshwari, as the procession moved swiftly beyond the palace premises. The vibrant participation of artists and the fervor of the crowds lining the route elevated the festive spirit to its peak. Coinciding with Gandhi Jayanti, the Vijayadashami procession took on added significance, blending reverence for Mahatma Gandhi with the splendor of the Jumboo Savari.Monte Carlo Mens Solid Lace Up Genuine Leather Casual Shoes (201803FW)
Highlights of Dasara 2025
Controversial Inauguration: International Booker Prize 2025 winner Banu Mushtaq, alongside Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, inaugurated the festival by lighting the lamp at Chamundi Hill. This sparked controversy, but the Supreme Court upheld secularism and equality, conveying a message of peace and harmony.
Jumboo Savari and Abhimanyu Elephant: On October 2, the Jumboo Savari procession featured the elephant Abhimanyu carrying the 750-kg golden Ambari for the sixth time, leading a majestic parade.
World Record Drone Show: A spectacular show with 3,000 drones on October 1 and 2 at Banni Mantapa created a world record. Depicting forms like a tiger, peacock, Krishna’s Kalinga Nartana, and Chamundeshwari, it mesmerized lakhs of spectators.
Ravana Dahan and Torchlight Parade: The Ravana Dahan on Vijayadashami symbolized the triumph of good. The evening torchlight parade at Banni Mantapa included an air show, yoga sessions, and laser displays, inaugurated by Governor Tha. Chandrashekhar Gowda.
Illumination: The city sparkled with over 100,000 lights for 21 days, adorning the palace, circles, and railway stations.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah performed the Nandi Dhwaja puja at 1:08 PM in front of the Kote Anjaneya Temple outside the palace, joined by ministers, marking the start of the procession. The parade, featuring tableaux and cultural troupes, showcased Karnataka’s rich heritage for over three hours. Thousands of artists performed traditional music and dance, accompanied by the sounds of tala, cymbals, tamate, nagari, dolu, and chande, representing the unique cultural essence of their districts.
As always, this year’s Mysuru Dasara was a grand spectacle. The evening concluded with thousands witnessing the Panjina Kavayatu (torchlight parade) at the Banni Mantapa grounds, bringing the 11-day Navratri celebrations to a vibrant close with a dazzling display of joy and festivity.