Mysuru Dasara 2023: Significance, Rituals and How it is Celebrated in Mysore

Mysuru Dasara is a grand festival in the South that coincides with the auspicious occasion of Navratri. It celebrates Goddess Chamundeshwari’s victory over Mahishasura, a demon who was fond of his supposed immortality. The 10-day extravaganza begins on the first day of Navratri, and ends with the grand celebrations of Vijayadashami or Dussehra. The occasion witnesses exciting celebrations in the city of Mysuru, which is marked by enormous pomp. The event kicked off on October 15 and will conclude on October 24.

Significance of Mysuru Dasara 2023

Mysuru Dasara has its roots dating back to 1610 when Raja Wadiya started it. Through the years, Mysuru Dasara has transformed, integrating diverse cultural, entertainment functions and forging timeless traditions. This festival has a great significance as it is believed that it celebrates the victory of Goddess Chamundeshwari (a form Goddess Parvati), over Mahishasura, the demon who had the boon that only a woman could kill him. Thus, the occasion commemorates the victory of good over evil.

How is Mysuru Dasara celebrated?

The festivity is marked by vibrant colours and grandeur. The celebrations aren’t limited to traditional rituals. The occasion brings the entire Mysuru community together who enjoys the festivities with great fervour. The most outstanding display of Mysuru Dasara celebrations is on Vijayadashami when the grand procession steals the spotlight.

The occasion is marked by three processions, and the Vijayadashami grand parade serves as the climax of those processions. Maha Navami day marks the first procession where the royal sword is revered. The procession is a fascinating show with dancers, horses, camels and elephants, and others participating joyfully.

The biggest crowd is drawn on Dasara by ‘Jumboo Savari’, the traditional procession. The central attraction of the procession is the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari seated on a splendid golden pedestal over an elephant.

The ‘gold mantapa’ over which the Goddess is seated is expected to weigh over 750 kgs. These celebrations uplift the diverse culture of Mysuru. The greatest procession is left for the end and is called ‘Panjina Kavavitha’.

It is scheduled for Vijayadashami evening to conclude the festivities with a spectacular finish. Mysuru Dasara 2023 celebrations are also expected to end in a similar manner by depicting the liveliness of the city.