Mysore Dasara Part-1

Mysore Dasara, origins and practice

The Mysore Dasara has a rich history, dating back to the 14th Century. This 400 years old festival is celebrated each year with much pomp and gaiety. During these 10 days’ festival, the otherwise peaceful city transforms into a magical, vibrant, nerve point of liveliness and celebrations.  This year the Dasara falls between 20 September and 8 October 2019. 


According to the mythology, Goddess Chamundi of the famed Chamundi Hills slews the vicious buffalo-headed demon, Mahishasura. The celebration of winning over the evil, while truth and purity emerging as victorious forces signify the socio-mythological essence of this 10 days’ festivities. The festival is held to pay homage to Goddess Chamundi. During these 10 days, nine forms of Devi/ Shakti (Power/ Goddess/ Good over Evil) are worshipped. 


Mysore Dasara is not only a religious festival, but it is also a time of socio-cultural merriment. During these 10 days, the entire Mysore city and Chamundi hills are decked up with numerous lights and decorations; the Palace is illuminated with more than 100,000 lamps. It is a sight to behold. 

The celebrations include cultural programs, dance dramas, handicrafts fair, torchlight parade, elephant procession carrying the golden throne and many older and traditional games and entertainments. 

The city is thronged with tourists from all over the world to witness and take part in this majestic celebration. We invite you to come and join in the merriment and carry back cherished memories of these magical days.