by reciprocal arrangement with Star of Mysore

Mysore, Sept 23: The eagerly-awaited Dasara celebrations took off this morning at 8.08 am atop Chamundi Hill, the abode of Goddess Chamundeswari near here.

Former President of Kannada Sahitya Parishat and former Bangalore Mayor G. Narayan offered puja to the idol of the Goddess Chamundeswari pla-ced in the silver chariot near the temple marking the beginning of the celebrations. His wife Yashodamma was also present.

Speaking on the occasion, Narayan observed that the fes-tival will unite the people belonging to various castes and creed.

He opined that Shakti Puja which is being performed for Goddess Chamundeswari was the symbol of women empowerment and the lamps and illumination during Dasara lead the people from darkness to light.

Deputy Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa, the chief guest, said that though the royal family of Mysore was not in power, Dasara celebrations are continuing. He called upon the people's representatives to take the opportunity to unite the people.

He announced that the Government was considering a proposal to set up Karnataka Culture Preservation Authority for the conservation of Kannada culture and heritage.

District In-charge Minister D.T. Jayakumar felicitated Narayan with the traditional Mysore Zari turban and a shawl.

Muzrai Minister B. Nagaraja Shetty, MPs C.H. Vijayashankar, M. Shivanna, MLAs H.S. Shankaralingegowda, G.T. Deve Gowda, Sunitha Veerappagowda, MLCs K.T. Srikantegowda, Thontadarya, S. Chikkamadu, ZP President Rajamma and Deputy Commissioner S. Selvakumar and other dignitories were present.

Earlier, Narayan was accorded a grand traditional welcome on his arrival at the venue and folk artistes presented a cultural programme.