• By Kamal Kumar
  • Tue, 24 Oct 2023 10:34 AM (IST)
  • Source:JND
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Mysuru Dasara 2023:  The festival of Vijayadashmi, a ten-day extravaganza, known by different names in different parts of the country is set to culminate in a grandeour of lights, enthusiasm and excitement on its final day. The country is bracing to celebrate the grand festival at its fullest, with Mysuru taking the lead.

Mysore Royal Palace in the night. (Image Credit:X/Suhas Dore)

Vijayadashmi in Mysuru, the historical city of Karnataka is locally called Nada Habba or Mysuru Dasara and considered as one of the most attractive Dussehra celebrations. Amid this yearly 10-day spectacle, Mysore bursts into vibrant life, creating an atmosphere that one must witness firsthand to understand truly. The Dussehra celebration in Mysuru distinguishes itself from the more common North Indian traditions, where effigies of Meghdoot, Ravana, and Kumbhakarna are ceremoniously burned.

Mysore's festivities unfold over 10 days, each day holding a unique and significant meaning. It's important to note that the city gets its name from the defeated demon king Mahishasura, who succumbed to the might of Goddess Chamundeshwari, a manifestation of Durga.

Also Read: Durga Puja 2023: Assam's Glittering Spectacle; Pandal Decorated With Coins Worth Rs 11 Lakh Draws Devotees In Nagaon

The city attracts thousands of tourists with its grandeur and ardour, providing unique experiences to them such as air show, Jamboo Savari (caparisoned elephant procession), a grand procession featuring the royal family, and various cultural performances.

Mysuru's Dussehra 2023 is already making news due to the grand air show which took place on Monday, and creating buzz around the country.

Here is a brief of events that will unfold on the final day (as reported by the Hindu)

- The focal point of attention is the golden howdah, carried by the lead elephant Abhimanyu during Jamboo Savari.
- Abhimanyu and 13 other elephants take centre stage in the procession, starting from the palace and concluding at Bannimantap grounds, covering the 5-km-long Raja Marga.
- The evening concludes with the torchlight parade at Bannimantap grounds, marking the final event of the celebrations, attended by Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot, the Chief Minister, Ministers, and special invitees.
- These tableaux vividly depict the cultural richness and traditions of the region, captivating the anticipation of the multitude of spectators.
- Chief Minister Siddaramaiah initiates the procession after the Nandi Dhwaja puja at Kote Anjaneya Swamy Temple, showcasing the State's cultural diversity.
- The climax involves the Chief Minister showering flowers on the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari, housed in the 750-kilo golden howdah on the tusker during Jamboo Savari.
- The highly anticipated moment is when Abhimanyu, accompanied by Kumki elephants, magnificently carries the howdah, drawing cheers from the enthusiastic crowds.
- The procession features 49 tableaux from various parts of the State, highlighting topics such as the Congress government's guarantee schemes and the recent world heritage-tagged Somanathapura temple.
- The Dasara illumination, a perennial crowd-pleaser, prompts calls for extending the special city lighting due to increased tourist influx, a demand supported by stakeholders in the tourism sector.