The cultural capital is all set to unveil its tapestry of regal splendour as Mysuru Dasara, whose traditions are rooted in the grandeur of the Vijayanagara emperors and nurtured by the Wadiyars, will commence from Monday.
The 11-day spectacle to be held from September 22 to October 2 this year, will transform Mysuru into a vibrant stage that will showcase the living heritage of Karnataka.
Symbolising the victory of good over evil in its essence, the festival as celebrated in Mysuru marks the defeat of demon Mahishasura at the hands of goddess Chamundeshwari, the presiding deity of the region.
Though a Pan-Indian festival, Dasara in Mysuru is a spectacle blending religious practices with folk and classical performances that bring to the fore the cultural diversity of Karnataka, and is hence known as Naada Habba or the State Festival.
While the origins of Dasara is traced to events described in the various religious texts including the Puranas, medieval travellers who visited the Vijayanagar empire and witnessed the celebrations have left behind vivid accounts, pointing to the historical antiquity of the tradition.
