Pomp and splendour

Vijayadashami or Dashahara marks the victory of good over evil. Celebrated all across Karnataka with great pomp and gusto, Dasara brings with it a spirited fervour in all its festive glory.

Not only Bengalureans but visitors from across the country look forward to being a part of the special celebrations. Traffic will come to a grinding halt as millions of people from across the world make a pitstop in Mysuru for the ongoing Dasara celebrations that will culminate with the mega festivities on Tuesday. Madikeri Dasara is equally popular with Kannadigas across the state. If you want to witness Dasara up close and personal, then take your pick from and soak in the festivities without breaking the bank.

Bengaluru has many Bommai Kolu, Bombe Habba  display festivals. Talking about how culture lovers will be in for a treat is Mysore-based historian, Nanjeraje Urs, who shares, “The 5.5 km procession starts from Mysore Palace and ends at Bannimantap grounds, where the main attraction is the elephant carrying the 700 kg golden howdah.

Jayachamaraja Wodeyar was the last king who sat on the decorated elephant that is replaced by the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari. This preceded by cultural troops, NCC, police and tableau from all 30 districts of Karnataka. Puja is offered to Nandi Dhwaj and after the puja, the procession begins in the afternoon and continues all day long. The Mysore Palace is lit up and there’s a cultural torch light parade with acrobatics and colourful march past, marking the Dasara celebrations. There’s also music festivals and Jaganmohan Palace for those who want to take a look at rare artifacts.”

If you want to experience the Mysore Dasara, the epitome of royalty in a unique experience, then KSTDC and Ola’s new initiative will fly you down to Mysuru from Bengaluru in an exclusive tourism flight for Rs 2000, so you can enjoy sightseeing and experience the Mysore Dasara in all its grandeur and royalty. Or be a part of Mysore Dasara festival with a two day, one night package that promises a thrilling experience packed with glimmering lights.

“The package includes a car for two days, one night, pick up and drop, accommodation, sightseeing in Srirangapatnam and Mysore for Rs 3959 per person,” says Aurvind Lama, Travelyaari, a Bengaluru-based start-up.

“Since it’s also an extended weekend, many Bengalureans like to go to Coorg for the Madikeri Dasara, which is known to be the second-most famous Dasara festival after Mysore and has a history of over a hundred years and includes visits to the four karagas and 10 mantapas depicting killing of demons by Gods. These days people also look forward to the santhe which is popular for its local food, fresh honey and coffee. Mysore dasara is held during the day, but Madikeri Dasara begins at the midnight of Vijayadashami,” states Prasad Bidapa, a Bengalurean who hails from Coorg.