Dussehra dhoom in Mysore

In Mysore, Dussehra is not just another festival. The celebrations here assume bigger proportions than anywhere else in the country so much so that it has come to be considered as the state festival of Karnataka. During the 10-day festival which falls in September-October, the usually calm and quiet city comes alive with dance festivals, puppet shows, handicraft fairs, film festivals and a host of other cultural and entertainment shows.

Dussehra is celebrated to mark the triumph of good over evil, dating back, according to mythology, the triumph of the Hindu goddess Chamundeshwari over the demon king Mahishasur in the vicinity of Mysore.


The preparations for this grand festival start a month in advance. The whole city is bright with lights during the festival and the famous Mysore palace is spectacularly illuminated. This is the only time of the year when people are allowed into the palace and the royal throne is displayed for public viewing. The royal family of Mysore lead the celebrations by performing various poojas for the special occasion.

Dussehra is also known as Navratri (festival of nine nights). During the first nine days, dance festivals, puppet shows, craft fairs, film festivals, wrestling and sports competitions are held throughout the city. Musicians from all over the country are invited to perform at the palace. The Dussehra exhibition where the private and public sector industries put up their stalls is held on the grounds of Doddakere Maidan.

The tenth day and last day is Vijayadashami. It is considered to be an auspicious day to undertake new ventures in business and personal life. Special poojas are conducted in temples throughout the city and an idol of goddess Chamundeshwari is carried on an elephant-mounted throne in a procession of adorned elephants, dancing groups, music bands, camels and horses. At night, light processions throng the streets and fireworks light up the sky.

This year the Dussehra festival is from 12 October to 21 October 2007.

Don't miss! The Mysore Palace A journey to Mysore is incomplete without a visit to this magnificent palace. If you are in Mysore during Dussehra, every road will lead you to the palace - all celebrations begin from the courtyards of the palace. Don't miss a chance to witness the beautiful architecture and the interiors of this great monument, which is open to visitors only during the festival of Dussehra. The Chamundi hills Named after goddess Chamundeshwari, Chamundi hills is a well-known geographical feature of the city. The ancient temple of Chamundehswari is situated at the top of the hill and special poojas are conducted at the temple during Dussehra. The gigantic colourful statue of the demon Mahishasura is situated close to the temple. From the hilltop, you get a scenic view of Mysore, its palaces, sprawling lakes and parks. Doddakere Maidan The Dussehra exhibition held here will bring out the shopper in you. Mysore zoo Set up in the 19 century, Mysore zoo is famous for breeding animals successfully in captivity. The lush green surroundings, chirping of birds and the rich wild life makes this place popular amongst animal lovers. Brindavan gardens Stretching below the Krishnaraja Sagar Dam, the Brindavan gardens is a must see. The well-maintained garden has been attracting tourists from far and wide with its manicured lawns, shrubs and dancing fountains. Sri Jayachamarajendra Art Gallery A palace converted into an art gallery, Sri Jayachamarajendra Art Gallery is a treasure house of great arts. The gallery has a host of paintings that date back to the 18 century. The famous Raja Ravi Verma paintings as well as the traditional 'Gold leaf' paintings can be seen in the gallery.

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