Mysuru/Bengaluru: The countdown for the grand inauguration of the world-famous Mysuru Dasara 2025 festival has begun. Celebrated author and Booker Prize winner Banu Mushtaq marked the opening of Karnataka’s royal festival by offering special prayers at the Chamundi Temple on Chamundi Hill, in the presence of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, district in-charge minister H.C. Mahadevappa, and several dignitaries.
Ahead of the official start, Banu Mushtaq became emotional as she bowed before the goddess, offered flowers, and performed rituals dedicated to Chamundeshwari Devi, the presiding deity of Mysuru. This year’s festival carries special significance as the state government has extended the celebrations from the traditional nine days to eleven days, making it one of the most elaborate editions in recent history.
The Chamundi Hill and Mysuru Palace surroundings have been transformed into a festive spectacle, illuminated with grand decorations and deepalankara (light displays). Visitors from across Karnataka and other states are expected to witness the cultural, spiritual, and historic grandeur of the Nada Habba (state festival).
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, inaugurating Dasara for the eighth time, emphasized the importance of preserving Karnataka’s traditions. District in-charge minister H.C. Mahadevappa, attending his fifth Dasara inauguration, noted that despite debates and controversies around the choice of inaugurator, the government remains committed to ensuring a traditional, religious, and culturally rich inauguration.4
For eleven days, Mysuru will resonate with navadurga worship, cultural performances, folk traditions, processions, and tourism festivities. From the Chamundi Hills to the illuminated palace, every corner of the city will echo the joy of Karnataka’s most iconic celebration.
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