Festivals of India: Jagannath Rath Yatra

Posted on July 8, 2024 by memoriesandsuch

Also known as the Chariot Festival, the Jagannath Rath Yatra is an annual Hindu celebration holding immense cultural and spiritual significance in Odisha and beyond. This grand festival commemorates the annual journey of Lord Jagannath, along with his elder brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra, from the Jagannath Temple in Puri to the Gundicha Temple, where they reside for nine days before returning to their abode.

The Jagannath Rath Yatra festival has a rich history and deep-rooted origins in Hindu mythology and scriptures. According to the Brahma Purana, Padma Purana, Skanda Purana, and Kapila Samhita, the festival symbolises the fulfilment of a wish made by Subhadra, the sister of Lord Jagannath, to travel to the Gundicha Temple in Puri, believed to be their aunt’s house. To honour her desire, Lord Jagannath and his elder brother Balabhadra embarked on a journey to Puri, accompanied by Subhadra, in chariots, marking the beginning of this grand celebration. This annual pilgrimage of the deities from their home temple to their aunt’s temple is symbolised by the Rath Yatra festival. Historical accounts and inscriptions suggest that the festival was celebrated during the reign of King Purushottama Deva in the 12th century. The Jagannath Temple, where the deities reside, was constructed by Chodaganga Deva of the Ganga Dynasty in the 12th century. The festival’s popularity and significance have transcended geographical boundaries, with the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) spreading the celebrations to over 108 cities worldwide since 1968.

The festival holds immense spiritual significance for the devotees of Lord Jagannath, who is revered as an avatar or incarnation of Lord Vishnu and considered the Lord of the Universe in Hindu scriptures. The Jagannath Temple in Puri, where the deities reside, is one of the four sacred pilgrimage sites or one of the Char Dham sites in India, making it a site of profound reverence for Hindus worldwide.

The Yatra is a nine-day extravaganza filled with vibrant rituals, colourful processions, and an atmosphere of devotion and festivity. The festivities commence on the Shukla Paksha Dwitiya, the second day of the bright fortnight of the Hindu month of Ashadha, which typically falls in June or July according to the Gregorian calendar. This year, it fell on July 7.

The festival’s highlight is the grand chariot procession, where the deities of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are placed on three massive, intricately carved wooden chariots known as raths. These chariots are meticulously constructed by skilled carpenters known as Maharanas over several weeks and have their own name and distinct design. The chariots are then pulled by thousands of devotees using thick ropes, accompanied by the rhythmic chanting of mantras, the beating of drums, and the blowing of conches. The procession moves along the Bada Danda or Grand Avenue in Puri, with the deities going to the Gundicha Temple, where they reside for nine days.

Throughout the nine-day festival, various rituals and celebrations take place, each holding its significance and adding to the overall grandeur of the event. On the day before the Rath Yatra, the deities are ceremonially bathed with 108 pitchers of water, known as the Snana Yatra or Bathing Ritual, symbolising purification and preparation for the journey. Pahandi Vijay is a ritual that marks the ceremonial transfer of the deities from the Jagannath Temple to the chariots, amidst chanting and devotional music. During the procession, devotees enthusiastically sweep the path ahead of the chariots with water, symbolising purification and devotion. This is known as Chhera Pahara or Sweeping with Water. On the fifth day, or Hera Panchami, the deities are offered a special meal, and devotees observe fasting and seek blessings. After nine days at the Gundicha Temple, the deities embark on their return journey to the Jagannath Temple, the Bahuda Yatra or the Return Journey, marking the culmination of the festival. On the final day, the deities are adorned with exquisite gold jewellery and ornaments, called Sunabesa or Adorning with Gold, symbolising their divine opulence. As the deities return from the Gundicha Temple, they stop at the Mausi Maa Temple or the Aunt’s Abode, where they are offered Poda Pitha, a special type of pancake believed to be Lord Jagannath’s favourite. On the way back from the Gundicha Temple, the chariot of Lord Jagannath pauses near the crematorium of Salabega, a Muslim devotee, to pay tribute to his unwavering devotion.

The Gundicha Temple holds immense significance in the Jagannath Rath Yatra festival. It is considered the Garden House or the aunt’s abode of Lord Jagannath, where the deities reside for nine days during the annual chariot festival. Several important rituals and ceremonies take place at the Gundicha Temple during the nine-day festival. One of the most significant is the Hera Panchami ritual, celebrated on the fifth day, where the deities are offered a special meal. The temple also houses the sacred Ratnavedi, a raised platform made of chlorite stone, where the deities are placed and worshipped during their stay. Gundicha Temple is an architectural masterpiece, built in the Kalinga style of temple architecture. Its intricate carvings, sculptures, and elaborate stonework showcase the finesse of Odisha’s cultural heritage. According to the Bamadev Samhita, witnessing the deities on the Simhasana or the sacred seat of the Gundicha Temple for a week is believed to grant a place in the heavenly abode of Vaikuntha for the devotees and their ancestors.

The three massive chariots used in the procession are engineering marvels, standing over 45 feet tall and weighing several tons. The intricately carved chariots with vibrant colours are meticulously constructed annually by skilled carpenters known as Maharanas. Each of the deities, Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra have their chariot with their distinct name, size, and colour scheme. Lord Jagannath’s chariot is known as Nandighosa. It stands at an imposing 45 feet high and 45 feet square at the wheel level. It has 16 wheels, each 7 feet in diameter, and is decked with a canopy of red and yellow cloth, signifying Lord Jagannath’s association with Lord Krishna or Pitambara. The chariot of Lord Balabhadra is called Taladhwaja, meaning the one with the palm tree on its flag. It is 44 feet high, with 14 wheels of 7 feet in diameter each, and is covered with red and blue cloth. Devi Subhadra’s chariot is known as Darpadalana, which translates to the trampler of pride. It stands 43 feet high, with 12 wheels of 7 feet in diameter, and is adorned with a covering of red and black cloth, with black symbolising the Mother Goddess and Shakti.

The chariots are not just massive structures but also artistic marvels. Each chariot is adorned with intricate carvings and painted wooden images called Parsva Devatas, representing various deities on the sides. The wheels, charioteers, and horses are also intricately carved and painted with vibrant colours and designs. Each chariot is attached to four horses of different colours – white for Balabhadra, dark for Jagannath, and red for Subhadra. The chariots also have their charioteers or sarathis – Matali for Jagannath, Daruka for Balabhadra, and Arjuna for Subhadra.

The construction of these chariots is a laborious process that begins months before the festival. The wood for the chariots is sourced from the former princely state of Dasapalla and transported to Puri via the Mahanadi River. A team of carpenters with hereditary rights and privileges build the chariots using specified types of wood like Phasi and Dhausa. The grand chariots are vehicles for the deities and symbols of Odisha’s rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship. Their sheer size, intricate designs, and meticulous construction process make them an integral part of the Jagannath Rath Yatra festival’s grandeur and spectacle.

During the Rath Yatra, the Jagannath Temple, which is usually off-limits to non-Hindus, opens its doors to people of all faiths and backgrounds, allowing them to participate in the festivities and seek blessings. The Jagannath Rath Yatra has transcended geographical boundaries and is now celebrated in over 108 cities worldwide, thanks to the efforts of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness or ISKCON. The Jagannath Rath Yatra is a magnificent celebration that seamlessly blends ancient traditions with contemporary cultural expressions. It is a testament to the enduring spiritual and cultural heritage of Odisha and India, attracting millions of devotees and visitors from around the world each year. The festival’s unique rituals, vibrant processions, and the spirit of devotion and inclusivity make it a truly unforgettable experience for all who witness it.

Festivals of India: Akshaya Tritiya

Posted on May 8, 2024 by memoriesandsuch

A celebration of eternal prosperity, new beginnings, and the triumph of good over evil, Akshaya Tritiya is a Hindu and Jain festival that will be celebrated on Friday. This auspicious day, which falls on the third lunar day or Tritiya of the bright fortnight, Shukla Paksha in the Hindu month of Vaisakha, holds a unique and profound significance that transcends the boundaries of religion and culture.

The origins of Akshaya Tritiya can be traced back to Hindu mythology, where it is believed to be a day of great significance. According to legend, it was on this day that Lord Vishnu’s sixth avatar, Lord Parashurama, was born. Parashurama, the wielder of the mighty axe, was tasked with the divine mission of restoring righteousness and vanquishing the tyrannical Kshatriya kings who had become corrupted by their power. The festival also marks the day when Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles, began writing the epic Mahabharata, the great Indian literary masterpiece that has captivated audiences for millennia.

In the Jain tradition, Akshaya Tritiya holds equal importance, as it is believed to be the day when the first Tirthankara, Rishabhanatha, ended his year-long asceticism by consuming sugarcane juice poured into his cupped hands. This act symbolised the triumph of the spirit over the physical, and the festival is celebrated as a testament to the enduring power of spiritual enlightenment.

The word “Akshaya” is a Sanskrit term that holds profound meaning within the context of Akshaya Tritiya. It translates to “that which never diminishes” or “that which is eternal.” This concept is central to the festival’s significance, as it represents the belief that any good deeds, investments, or new beginnings undertaken on this day will bring about unending prosperity and abundance.

This idea of the “Akshaya” or the eternal, is deeply rooted in Hindu philosophy, which emphasises the cyclical nature of existence and the perpetual renewal of the cosmic order. The festival of Akshaya Tritiya is seen as a celebration of this eternal cycle, where the divine and the earthly converge to create a harmonious balance.

Akshaya Tritiya is celebrated with great fervour and devotion across India, with each region and community observing the festival in its own unique way. The spiritual significance of the day is manifested through various rituals and customs that are deeply ingrained in the Hindu and Jain traditions.

One of the most prominent practices associated with Akshaya Tritiya is the offering of puja, or worship, to the deities. Devotees visit temples and perform special ceremonies, lighting lamps, offering flowers, and chanting mantras to seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu, Goddess Lakshmi, and other revered figures. This act of devotion is believed to bring about spiritual enlightenment, as well as material prosperity and good fortune.

The cultural significance of Akshaya Tritiya is equally profound, as the festival is celebrated with a deep sense of community and shared heritage. In many parts of India, the day is marked by the exchange of gifts, the sharing of festive delicacies, and the coming together of families and friends to commemorate the occasion.

As the world continues to evolve, the festival of Akshaya Tritiya has adapted to the changing times, while still maintaining its core values and traditions. In the modern era, the celebration of this auspicious day has taken on new forms, reflecting the diverse needs and preferences of contemporary Indian society.

One of the most notable developments in the celebration of Akshaya Tritiya is the rise of online platforms and digital technologies. Many people now opt for virtual puja ceremonies, where they can connect with spiritual leaders and seek blessings from the comfort of their homes. This trend has been particularly prevalent during the COVID-19 pandemic, when physical gatherings were restricted.

Another emerging trend is the emphasis on eco-friendly and sustainable celebrations. Instead of traditional gold and silver purchases, some individuals are choosing to invest in eco-friendly products or services, such as planting trees or supporting local artisans. This shift reflects a growing awareness of the importance of environmental stewardship and social responsibility.

Social media has also become a crucial platform for the celebration of Akshaya Tritiya. People share festive greetings, photos, and videos on various platforms, connecting with friends and family members who may be geographically distant. This digital connectivity has helped to preserve the spirit of the festival, even in the face of physical separation.

The festival of Akshaya Tritiya has endured for centuries, transcending the boundaries of time and space. Its enduring legacy is a testament to the deep-rooted cultural and spiritual values that it represents, as well as its ability to adapt to the changing needs of the modern world.

As we look to the future, the celebration of Akshaya Tritiya will undoubtedly continue to evolve, incorporating new traditions and embracing the diverse perspectives of the global community. Yet, at its core, the festival will remain a celebration of the eternal, a reminder of the unending cycle of prosperity, and a testament to the triumph of good over evil.

In a world that is often marked by uncertainty and change, the festival of Akshaya Tritiya stands as a beacon of hope, a reminder of the timeless values that have sustained humanity for generations. As we continue to honor this auspicious day, we are not just celebrating a single event, but rather, we are embracing the enduring legacy of a festival that has the power to inspire, uplift, and transform lives.

Festivals of India: Jaisalmer Desert Festival

Posted on February 21, 2024 by memoriesandsuch

An annual festival that takes place in the heart of the Thar Desert, the Jaisalmer Desert Festival is a mesmerising celebration that transports one to a world where time stands still and the desert comes alive with the vibrant spirit of Rajasthan.

Nestled on the westernmost frontier of India, Jaisalmer is a city like no other. Its honey-coloured fort, rising majestically from the desert floor, earns it the moniker Golden City. As the gateway to the Thar Desert, Jaisalmer has a rich history steeped in tales of valour, trade, and the sands. The Desert Festival is held every year during the Hindu month of Magh, three days before the full moon. The festival is celebrated in the dunes of Sam, about 42 km from the city.

The Desert Festival kicks off with a regal procession through the narrow lanes of Jaisalmer. Bedecked camels, adorned with traditional finery, lead the way, followed by local musicians, dancers, and colourfully dressed locals. The rhythmic beats of folk music and the twirl of traditional dancers create an enchanting symphony that resonates across the dunes. From the energetic Kalbeliya dance to the soulful tunes of Manganiyar musicians, every performance reflects the vibrancy and diversity of Rajasthan’s artistic legacy.

The undulating dunes surrounding Jaisalmer set the stage for one of the festival’s highlights—the Camel Safari. Visitors can embark on a journey into the heart of the Thar Desert, accompanied by skilled guides who regale them with tales of desert life. The surreal landscape, shifting hues with the changing light, creates a canvas of unparalleled beauty.

One of the most anticipated events is the Battle of the Bands—a showcase of traditional Rajasthani music. Local musicians engage in friendly competition, captivating audiences with their skilful performances on instruments like the dholak, sarangi, and khartaal.

In a nod to the region’s proud heritage, the festival hosts a lively moustache competition. Men from far and wide showcase their elaborate facial hair in categories that celebrate the artistry and individuality of Rajasthani moustaches. It’s a spirited contest that adds a touch of whimsy to the cultural festivities.

Turbans, or pagris, are an integral part of Rajasthani attire, symbolising honour and pride. The turban-tying competition invites participants to showcase their skill in creating elaborate headgear. Each turban tells a story, with colours and styles representing a wearer’s community, occupation, or personal history.

The narrow lanes of Jaisalmer come alive with street performances, puppet shows, and magic acts. The vibrant bazaars, adorned with traditional crafts and textiles, become a playground for artists, capturing the imaginations of locals and visitors alike.

No festival is complete without a culinary journey, and the Desert Festival is no exception. Visitors are treated to a feast of Rajasthani delicacies, each dish a testament to the region’s rich culinary heritage. From the aromatic Dal Baati Churma to the indulgent Ghevar, the festival is a gastronomic adventure that tantalises the taste buds.

Beyond the festivities, the Desert Festival offers a unique opportunity to experience the desert lifestyle. Traditional desert camps, known as ‘khudde,’ provide a glimpse into the daily lives of desert dwellers. Visitors can participate in workshops on traditional crafts, learn the art of tie-dyeing, and engage with local artisans, creating memories that extend beyond the festival’s vibrant days.

For photography enthusiasts, the Jaisalmer Desert Festival is a visual feast. The stark beauty of the desert, juxtaposed with the riot of colours from traditional attire and festivities, creates a surreal panorama. Sunrise and sunset over the dunes offer photographers a canvas to capture the changing hues of the landscape.

The Desert Festival attracts a significant influx of visitors. Planning accommodations and travel well in advance ensures a seamless experience amid the festivities. The desert sun can be intense. Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential to staying protected while exploring the dunes and attending outdoor events. Jaisalmer’s cobbled streets and the sandy dunes require comfortable footwear. Whether exploring the city or venturing into the desert, sturdy shoes are a must. Respect local customs and traditions. Seek permission before photographing people, especially during religious ceremonies or private moments. The desert climate can be dehydrating. Carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated, especially during camel safaris and outdoor events.

After being at the Desert Festival in Jaisalmer, visitors take back with them memories etched in the sands of time. The vibrant tapestry of culture, music, and camaraderie experienced amid the Thar Desert is not merely a festival; it is an experience of a lifetime. A journey that transcends time echoes the folk music, the vibrant hues of turbans, and the enchanting dance of the desert winds that linger long after the festival tents come down and visitors have gone back to their humdrum lives.

Festivals of India: International Sand Art Festival

Posted on December 4, 2023 by memoriesandsuch

The International Sand Art Festival, held annually from November 24 to December 1, in Odisha, is a testament to the boundless creativity of artists who craft delicate sculptures from the most humble of materials—sand. This unique festival, which takes place on the shores of Chandrabhaga Beach in Konark, has been captivating the hearts of visitors and art enthusiasts from around the world since its inception. This annual event transforms ordinary grains of sand into magnificent masterpieces of creativity and imagination.

The festival is set against a stunning backdrop—Chandrabhaga Beach. Known for its pristine beauty and tranquil ambience, this beach, nestled in the coastal town of Konark with its golden sands, provides the perfect canvas for the artists’ sand sculptures to come to life.

At the heart of the International Sand Art Festival lies the legacy of one man, Sudarsan Pattnaik. A renowned sand artist hailing from Odisha, Pattnaik has not only earned international acclaim for his sand sculptures but has also been a driving force behind the festival’s inception and continued success.

The International Sand Art Festival began as a modest local event in Puri, Odisha, in the early 1990s, primarily showcasing the talents of Sudarsan Pattnaik and his students. Over the years, it grew in stature, attracting sand artists from India and beyond. In 2011, the festival found its current home on Chandrabhaga Beach, offering artists a larger canvas and a stunning coastal backdrop.

Each year, the festival adopts a specific theme, guiding artists to create sculptures that resonate with the chosen motif. Themes have ranged from environmental conservation to cultural heritage, and artists draw inspiration from a wide array of sources.

Artists begin with an empty patch of sand, meticulously sculpting their visions using only sand and water. The delicate nature of the medium demands precision and patience, as sculptors must work quickly before the sand dries. The festival showcases a diverse range of sculptures, from intricate figurines and lifelike portraits to towering structures that seem to defy gravity. The level of detail that artists achieve with grains of sand is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Alongside local talents like Sudarsan Pattnaik, the festival often attracts renowned sand artists from around the world. Their participation adds an international flair to the event, fostering cross-cultural exchange and artistic collaboration.

In 2023, the International Sand Art Festival will embrace the theme of “Celebrating Cultural Heritage.” This theme invites artists to explore and depict the rich tapestry of cultural diversity that defines India and the world. Through their sand sculptures, artists pay homage to the traditions, rituals, and artistic expressions that have shaped our collective heritage.

The theme highlights the importance of preserving and celebrating cultural heritage in a rapidly changing world. It serves as a reminder that our past informs our present and shapes our future. By showcasing the cultural heritage of different regions and communities, the festival encourages dialogue and understanding among people from diverse backgrounds. It fosters an appreciation for the beauty of our shared human heritage. Sand art transcends language barriers, allowing artists to communicate complex cultural narratives through their sculptures. It demonstrates the power of art to convey messages and emotions across cultures. The theme inspires artists and visitors alike to reflect on the significance of their cultural backgrounds and the contributions of diverse cultures to our global society.

The festival plays a pivotal role in promoting art and culture, not only in Odisha but on a global scale. It showcases the immense artistic talent of sand sculptors and fosters an appreciation for the arts. The festival draws tourists from all over the world, benefiting the local economy and supporting tourism-related businesses in Odisha. It serves as a platform for cultural exchange, allowing artists from different parts of India and the world to come together, share their perspectives, and learn from one another. The festival engages the local community in various ways, from providing opportunities for local artisans to showcase their crafts to offering art workshops for children.

The International Sand Art Festival, with its mesmerizing sculptures and cultural celebrations, reminds us of the power of art to bridge divides, celebrate diversity, and inspire generations. In the delicate grains of sand sculpted into intricate forms, we find not only beauty but also a profound message – that creativity knows no bounds and that cultural heritage is a treasure to be cherished and shared.

Festivals of India: Mysuru Dasara

Posted on October 16, 2023 by memoriesandsuch

Karnataka’s state festival or Nadahabba, the Dasara festival in Mysore is a 10-day festival, starting with the nine nights of Navaratri and the last day being Vijayadashami or Dasara. The festival is observed on the tenth day in the Hindu calendar month of Ashvina, which typically falls in the Gregorian months of September and October. The 10-day extravaganza marks the triumph of good over evil and pays homage to the goddess Chamundeshwari, the presiding deity of Mysuru.

Dasara, Navratri and Vijayadashami was the day in Hindu mythology when Goddess Chamundeshwari or Goddess Durga killed the demon Mahishasura, whose slaying by the Goddess gave the city its name of Mysuru. The Mysuru tradition celebrates the warriors and the state fighting for the good during this festival, ritually worshipping and displaying the state sword, weapons, elephants, and horses along with the Hindu Devi goddess in her warrior form, predominantly as well as the Vishnu avatar of Lord Rama. The origins of the Dasara festival can be traced back to ancient Hindu mythology, specifically the great epic, Ramayana. It is believed that Lord Rama, the seventh avatar of Lord Vishnu, worshipped the goddess Durga before embarking on his journey to rescue his wife, Sita, from the demon king Ravana. In commemoration of the divine blessings bestowed upon him, Lord Rama emerged victorious on the day of Vijayadashami, the tenth day of the festival. The ceremonies and a major procession are traditionally presided by the king of Mysuru.

The Dasara festivities began with the Vijayanagar kings as early as the 14th or 15th century and played a historical role in the 14th-century Vijayanagara Empire, where it was called Mahanavami and the festivities are shown in the relief artwork of the outer wall of the Hazara Rama temple of Hampi. The Italian traveller Niccolò de’ Conti described the festival’s intensity and importance as a grandeur religious and martial event with royal support. The event revered Durga as the warrior goddess or Chamundeshwari and hosted athletic competitions, singing and dancing, fireworks, a pageantry military parade and charitable giving to the public.

After the fall of the Vijayanagar to the Deccan Sultanates, these Hindu celebrations came to an end under Muslim rulers. The Wodeyars of Mysore formed a kingdom in Southern parts of the Vijayanagara Empire and continued the Mahanavami or Dasara festival celebration, a tradition started initially by Raja Wodeyar I in mid-September 1610 at Srirangapatna. The city of Mysuru has a long tradition of celebrating the Dasara festival with grandeur and pomp. The Dasara festival in Mysuru completed its 409th anniversary in 2019. Over the centuries, the Dasara festival evolved and assimilated various regional customs and traditions, ultimately becoming an essential part of Mysuru’s cultural identity. The festival showcases the city’s rich heritage and its reverence for its ruling family, the Wadiyars, who have played a pivotal role in preserving and promoting the festival’s grandeur.

The festival is the jewel in the city’s crown and the entire city springs into action. Adorned with colourful lights and decorations, the iconic Mysuru Palace, a masterpiece of Indo-Saracenic architecture, takes centre stage as it is beautifully illuminated with nearly 100,000 light bulbs from 7 to 10 pm on all days of the festival, presenting a breathtaking sight. The Nadahabba is inaugurated with great fanfare at the Mysuru Palace by the current scion of the royal family. Dressed in traditional regal attire, the Wadiyars carry the golden idol of the goddess Chamundeshwari in a magnificent procession, accompanied by traditional music, dance, and the beats of ceremonial drums. The spirit of the festival is infectious as locals and visitors alike gather to witness this majestic spectacle. The intricate floral rangoli, known as Rangoli Patha, adorn the palace grounds, and the aromatic fragrance of flowers fills the air, adding to the festive ambience. Various cultural and religious programs highlighting the dance, music and culture of the State of Karnataka are performed in front of the illuminated Palace.

The heart of Dasara lies in the nine nights of Navaratri, a time to celebrate the various forms of the divine goddess. Mysuru becomes a cultural haven during this period, with vibrant performances of classical music, dance, and folk arts taking place at various venues across the city.

The grand finale of the Dasara festival is the Vijayadashami procession, a regal pageantry that captivates all. The streets of Mysuru come alive with an unending sea of spectators, eagerly awaiting the arrival of the adorned elephant carrying the idol of goddess Chamundeshwari. The traditional Dasara procession, locally known as Jumboo Savari is held on the streets of Mysuru. The main attraction of this procession is the idol of the Goddess Chamundeshwari which is placed on a golden mantapa, made out of 750 kg of gold on the top of a decorated elephant. This idol is worshipped by the royal couple and other invitees before it is taken around in the procession. Colourful tableaux, dance groups, music bands, decorated elephants, horses and camels form a part of the procession which starts from the Mysore Palace and culminates at a place called Bannimantap where the Banni tree or Prosopis spicigera is worshipped.

According to a legend from the Mahabharata, the banni tree was used by the Pandavas to hide their weapons during their one-year period of Agnatavasa where they had to live incognito. Before undertaking any warfare, the kings traditionally worshipped this tree to help them emerge victorious in war. The Dasara festivities would culminate on the night of Vijayadashami with an event held on the grounds at Bannimantap called Panjina Kavayatthu or the torch-light parade.

The procession features beautifully decorated tableaux showcasing the city’s rich history and mythological stories. Folk dancers, performers, and cultural troupes from across the state add a vibrant touch to the procession, reiterating Karnataka’s diverse cultural heritage. The procession culminates with a breathtaking display of traditional music and fireworks, illuminating the night sky and leaving spectators in awe. After the Jamboo Savari, a torchlight parade takes place in the evening at the Bannimantap Parade Grounds.

The famous Mysuru Dasara Exhibition, held in the exhibition grounds opposite the Mysore Palace is a major highlight, where a carnival-like atmosphere enthrals visitors with thrilling rides, games, and mouthwatering street food. Local artisans and craftsmen showcase their talents in the exhibition, adding a touch of traditional artistry to the festivities. The exhibition was started by the Maharaja of Mysore, Chamaraja Wodeyar X in 1880 with the sole aim of introducing timely developments to the people of Mysore. The task of holding the exhibition is now entrusted to the Karnataka Exhibition Authority or KEA. This exhibition starts during Dasara and goes on till December. A play area containing attractions like a Ferris wheel is also present to provide entertainment and various Governmental agencies set up stalls to signify the achievements and projects that they have undertaken.

The Dasara Sports Meet, reminiscent of the days of the Maharajas, draws enthusiastic participants and spectators alike. The traditional sport of Kusti or wrestling and other indigenous games and races bring back the nostalgic charm of a bygone era and attract wrestlers from all around India. On all the 10 days of Dasara, various music and dance concerts are held in auditoriums around Mysore city. Musicians and dance groups from all over India are invited to perform on this occasion.

The Dasara procession has faced increasing pressure from activists and campaigners to end its controversial use of elephants. Procession elephants, as well as their handlers known as mahouts, have died from several shocking incidents over the years. In 2018, leaked footage from the elephants’ training ground showed an elephant swaying in distress. International press labelled the video heartbreaking and reported on how the elephants must undergo two months of rigorous training to perform in the procession.

Dasara in Mysuru is not just a festival; it is a testament to the city’s deep-rooted heritage and the enduring spirit of its people. It is festivals like this, that help us to cherish and preserve our cultural legacies for generations to come.

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