Mysuru celebrates Dussehra in style and tradition

Dussehra in Mysuru was celebrated in style and tradition, where Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah was the chief guest.

Mysuru Dussehra is supposedly one of the best Dussehra celebrations in the country. People across the country as well the world come to witness the spectacular procession in Mysuru.

The main attraction of Mysuru Dussehra is the jumbo Sawari where a trained elephant carries a golden howdah weighing 750 kgs with the replica of Maa Chamundeshwari.

Mysore Dussehra is supposed to be one of the best Dussehra celebrations of the country. People across the country as well from different part of world come to see the spectacular procession of Mysore Dussehra. The main attraction of Mysore Dussehra is the jumbo Sawari where a trained elephant carries a golden howdah (750kg) with the replica of Maa Chamundeshwari.

A tree called the Bunni tree is worshipped during the Dussehra celebrations here. It is believed that when the Pandavas went into exile, they kept their weapons under this tree for safety. Post exile, they found their weapons safely under the tree. As such, they worshipped the tree and since then this tradition is in vogue.

The history of celebrating Dussehra has been going on for 400 years. During the time of Raja Krishandev Roy, it used to be organised at Chanpattana (80 km from Mysore) but with time it has shifted to Mysore.

As per history, during the time of Haider Ali, it could not be celebrated for a few years. Earlier, the purpose of celebrating Dussehra was to exhibit the power and influence of the king. But at present, the Karnataka Government has set aside a separate budget to celebrate Dussehra.

There are tabloids on display from various parts of state and a colourful exhibition of art and folk culture during the festival. The Royal Wodeyar family observes Dussehra separately and they have a tradition of organising "Khas Darbar" for 10 days. Everything is organised as per the royal traditions of the past.