Mysuru Dasara 2026: Grand Plans Unveiled by Karnataka Deputy CM

Mysuru Dasara to be celebrated with grandeur, meticulous planning: Karnataka Dy CM Parameshwara

Bengaluru, July 10

He made these suggestions at a preliminary high-level meeting held today at the Conference Hall in Vidhana Soudha under the chairmanship of Chief Minister DK Shivakumar to discuss the organisation of the Nada Habba Mysuru Dasara Mahotsava - 2026.

"Mysuru Dasara is not merely an annual festival, temple chariot procession or religious ritual. It is a celebration of Karnataka's heritage, culture and history. Irrespective of drought-like conditions in parts of the State, all necessary arrangements must be made to celebrate our Nada Habba grandly and without disruption," he said.

Recalling the festival's history, he said that the Maharajas of Mysuru once led the procession seated in the golden 'howdah'. Although such practices are no longer possible in a democratic system, the State's traditions must be preserved and showcased to future generations.

He noted that the festival was celebrated as Mahanavami during the Vijayanagara era to mark the victory of good over evil and military triumphs. The Mysuru Wadiyar dynasty later continued the Dasara tradition for nearly 400 years.

"There is no need to scale down the celebrations. The Chief Minister will take an appropriate decision in this regard," he said.

More than 25 lakh people visited Mysuru Dasara last year. Parameshwara said that during his previous tenures as Home Minister, he regularly reviewed the security and administrative arrangements for the festival.

"No untoward incidents were reported last year despite the large turnout. The district administration made excellent arrangements with the cooperation of elected representatives," he said.

"Chief Minister DK Shivakumar had assumed office with a new vision. Karnataka has nearly 1.9 crore youth between the ages of 16 and 30. We must familiarise them with our heritage, culture and history. An exhibition showcasing Mysuru's history should be organised, while the city's illumination should reflect its rich cultural legacy," he said.

He called for promoting Mysuru Dasara globally and making greater efforts to attract domestic and international tourists. Suitable facilities must be provided to foreign visitors, and Karnataka's heritage should be presented effectively to the world, he said.

Parameshwara also stressed the importance of organising Dasara sports competitions successfully.

"Many sportspersons gained recognition through Dasara sports. Earlier, competitions began at the taluk level. Young people must be encouraged to participate and provided with greater opportunities," he said.

He said the Chief Minister has a vision to showcase Karnataka on a larger and more vibrant platform. Yuva Dasara should therefore be organised in a more meaningful and engaging manner.

Dasara celebrations should not remain confined to Mysuru, he said. Chamarajanagar, Srirangapatna, Madikeri, Mangaluru and Tumakuru already organise Dasara festivities, and similar celebrations should be encouraged in other districts.

"These celebrations should showcase the unique culture, art and literature of each district and create greater awareness among local communities," he said.

Responding to legislators who raised concerns about the preservation of Mysuru's heritage buildings, the Deputy Chief Minister said historic structures in cities such as Paris and Rome had been carefully conserved. "Similar efforts must be made here. Pending court cases should be pursued and resolved at the earliest. Until then, heritage buildings must not be allowed to deteriorate," he instructed.

"Nowhere else in the country is Dasara celebrated on such a grand and meaningful scale as in Mysuru. Let us bring everyone together and celebrate this historic Nada Habba with greater grandeur and better organisation," he said.

— ANI