Why Dasara is Celebrated in Mysore: A Deep Dive into History, Tradition, and Festivities

Dasara, also known as Dussehra, is one of the grandest and most vibrant festivals celebrated in India. Among the various regions where it is observed with great enthusiasm, Mysore, a city in Karnataka, stands out as a remarkable location for this celebration. The grandeur and magnificence of Mysore’s Dasara have attracted tourists from all over the world, making it a significant cultural and historical event. This article delves into the history, cultural significance, and celebrations of Dasara in Mysore, explaining why it is such an important festival for the city and its people.

The Historical Origins of Dasara in Mysore

Dasara in Mysore has roots that go back several centuries, tied deeply to the city’s royal heritage. The celebration is primarily associated with the victory of good over evil — symbolized by the goddess Chamundeshwari, an incarnation of Goddess Durga, slaying the demon Mahishasura.

The Legend of Mahishasura and Chamundeshwari

According to Hindu mythology, the city of Mysore is believed to have derived its name from Mahishasura, a demon who once ruled the region. Mahishasura was a buffalo demon who terrorized the heavens and the earth. To save the people, Goddess Durga took the form of Chamundeshwari and fought Mahishasura in a fierce battle. After a long struggle, she killed him atop a hill, which is today known as Chamundi Hill. This victory of Chamundeshwari over Mahishasura is the primary reason for celebrating Dasara in Mysore.

The Wodeyar Dynasty and Dasara

The grandeur of Mysore Dasara can be attributed to the Wodeyar dynasty, which ruled Mysore from 1399 to 1947. The Wodeyars were ardent devotees of Goddess Chamundeshwari, and it was during their reign that Dasara evolved into the spectacular event it is today.

• Raja Wodeyar I (1578–1617) is credited with institutionalizing the grand Dasara festival in 1610. The Wodeyars adopted this celebration to showcase the strength and cultural wealth of the kingdom. Since then, every ruler of the Wodeyar dynasty has taken part in the Dasara festivities with great enthusiasm.
• The royal family believed that the goddess’s blessings were essential for the prosperity and well-being of the kingdom. Hence, Dasara became not only a religious festival but also a symbol of the power and prestige of the Mysore royalty.

The Rituals and Traditions of Mysore Dasara

Mysore Dasara is celebrated for ten days, with each day holding unique significance. The rituals and traditions associated with the festival reflect the rich cultural heritage of Karnataka and the royal family’s devotion to Chamundeshwari.

Mysore Palace Illumination

One of the most iconic aspects of Mysore Dasara is the illuminated Mysore Palace. Every evening during the festival, the palace is lit up with around 100,000 bulbs, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. This tradition has continued for decades, attracting tourists and locals alike.

Jumbo Savari (Dasara Procession)

The Jumbo Savari is the grand procession held on the last day of Dasara, known as Vijayadashami. This event is the highlight of the entire festival, drawing huge crowds. The Jumbo Savari features a majestic procession of caparisoned elephants, with one of them carrying the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari in a golden howdah (weighing 750 kg). The procession travels through the streets of Mysore, starting from the Mysore Palace and culminating at the Bannimantap Grounds.

In addition to elephants, the procession includes traditional music bands, dancers, horses, camels, and floats depicting various mythological and cultural themes. The Jumbo Savari is a visual treat, reflecting the glory and heritage of Mysore’s royal past.

Banni Tree Worship

The Banni Tree (Prosopis spicigera), also known as Shami, holds great significance in Mysore Dasara. Legend has it that warriors in ancient times would worship the Banni tree before going to battle, as it was believed to bring victory and success. During the Dasara celebrations, this tradition continues, with the royal family and soldiers performing the Banni Tree Puja to seek blessings for strength and victory.

Chamundeshwari Temple Rituals

The Chamundeshwari Temple atop Chamundi Hill plays a central role in the Dasara celebrations. Special pujas and rituals are performed in the temple throughout the ten days of the festival. The royal family also visits the temple to seek the blessings of the goddess before the commencement of the Jumbo Savari.

Mysore Dasara Exhibition

The Mysore Dasara Exhibition, which dates back to 1880, is another important aspect of the celebrations. Held at the Doddakere Maidan near Mysore Palace, this exhibition showcases a variety of products, including handicrafts, textiles, and agricultural items. The exhibition also features entertainment options like amusement rides, food stalls, and cultural performances.

Cultural Events and Entertainment During Mysore Dasara

Mysore Dasara is not only a religious festival but also a celebration of Karnataka’s rich cultural heritage. Various cultural events and entertainment programs are organized throughout the ten-day festival, providing a platform for local and international artists to showcase their talents.

Dasara Cultural Programs

Every evening during Dasara, cultural programs are held at venues like the Mysore Palace, Kalamandira, and Jaganmohan Palace. These programs feature classical music and dance performances, including Bharatanatyam, Kathak, and Carnatic music concerts. In addition, folk art forms like Yakshagana, Dollu Kunitha, and Veeragase are also performed, reflecting the cultural diversity of Karnataka.

Dasara Sports Events

Sports have always been an integral part of Mysore Dasara. The Dasara Sports Meet includes a wide range of sporting events such as wrestling, kabaddi, kho-kho, athletics, and volleyball. Wrestlers from across India participate in the Dasara Wrestling Competition, which has a long-standing tradition in Mysore.

Dasara Flower Show

The Dasara Flower Show is another major attraction during the festival. Held at the Kuppanna Park, the flower show showcases a stunning display of flowers, floral decorations, and themed installations. The event attracts gardening enthusiasts, tourists, and locals who come to witness the beauty of the flowers and the creativity of the florists.

Dasara Food Mela

For food lovers, the Dasara Food Mela is a must-visit event. Held at multiple locations across Mysore, the food mela features a wide variety of local Karnataka delicacies as well as dishes from other parts of India. From traditional Mysore Pak to Bisi Bele Bath, the food mela offers a feast for the taste buds.

The Significance of Mysore Dasara for Karnataka’s Tourism and Economy

Mysore Dasara is not only a religious and cultural festival but also a major contributor to the tourism and economy of Karnataka. The festival attracts lakhs of tourists from India and around the world, boosting the local economy through hospitality, transport, and trade.

Tourism Boom During Dasara

Mysore Dasara acts as a magnet for tourists who flock to the city to witness the grandeur of the celebrations. The illuminated Mysore Palace, the grand Jumbo Savari, and the cultural programs are major attractions for visitors. Hotels, restaurants, and local businesses see a surge in customers during this time, and the festival significantly boosts the city’s tourism industry.

Economic Impact

Apart from tourism, Mysore Dasara has a positive economic impact on various sectors, including handicrafts, agriculture, and retail. The Dasara Exhibition provides a platform for artisans and craftsmen to showcase and sell their products, promoting the traditional arts and crafts of Karnataka. The increase in footfall during the festival benefits local traders, shop owners, and transportation services.

Also Read: Mysore Palace Tickets Price 2024

Mysore Dasara in Modern Times: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity

Over the years, Mysore Dasara has evolved, blending traditional practices with modern elements. While the core religious and cultural aspects of the festival remain intact, the celebrations have adapted to the changing times.

• Technological Innovations: In recent years, technology has played a role in enhancing the Dasara experience. The illumination of Mysore Palace has become more energy-efficient with the use of LED lights, and live streaming of the Dasara events allows people from around the world to witness the festivities.
• Social Initiatives: The government of Karnataka has also used the platform of Mysore Dasara to promote social causes. Initiatives like cleanliness drives, eco-friendly practices, and women’s empowerment are often highlighted during the festival.

Conclusion: Why Mysore Dasara Holds a Special Place in Indian Culture

Mysore Dasara is more than just a religious festival; it is a celebration of Karnataka’s rich history, culture, and traditions. The festival brings together people from all walks of life to witness the grandeur of the royal procession, the beauty of the cultural performances, and the vibrancy of the city’s traditions.

The deep-rooted history of Dasara, its connection with the Wodeyar dynasty, and the mythology surrounding Goddess Chamundeshwari and Mahishasura make Mysore Dasara a unique and iconic celebration in India. As it continues to evolve, Mysore Dasara remains a symbol of unity, cultural pride, and the enduring legacy of Karnataka’s heritage.