Mysuru: The state government, which had been upbeat about the Dasara festival this year following the good monsoon, has now decided to scale it down owing to the recent floods and landslides in Kodagu district and the drought in 65 taluks of the state. While the 10-day festival will be celebrated with traditional fanfare, it will not be a grand affair, according to Chief Minister H D Kumarswamy.
Speaking to reporters after chairing a meeting of the Dasara high power committee here on Tuesday, he said that the decision to scale down the festivities had been taken on the recommendation of the elected representatives, officers and others.
“But all the traditions and programmes, including the Yuva Dasara will remain intact. As there has been a surplus production of electricity in the state, we will also illuminate Mysuru as always for the festival,” he assured. Revealing that the Dasara festivities would be inaugurated on October 10 by Infosys Foundation chairperson Sudha Murthy, he explained that she was chosen because of her social concerns and as she was a writer and an expert in the field of education. While the tourism sector is expected help fund the festival to the tune of Rs 100 crore, another Rs 7.10 crore from last year’s Dasara funds will also be used for it this year.
Interestingly, the government intends to hold some of the Dasara events all through the year. “We don’t want the programmes that have been planned for Dasara to end with it. We are considering hosting some programmes like the folk fair , showcasing traditional folk dances and culture of rural Karnataka, during the year in Mysuru. We want the exhibition to be held round- the- year too. There is also a proposal for a permanent Dasara authority,” the Chief Minister revealed.
Meanwhile, the 12 Dasara elephants will begin their journey to the Mysuru palace on September 2 from Veeranahosahalli in the Nagararahole tiger reserve, according to Mr Kumaraswamy . Responding to a query, tourism minister Sa Ra Mahesh, said that the state government would consider having a brand ambassador to promote its tourism.
