Mysore: Dasara Festival Celebrated with Legendary Magnificence and Splendor

Press Trust of India

Mysore, Oct 10: Amid tight security, lacs of people witnessed the spectacular and world famous Mysore Dasara procession here which marked the grand finale to the 10-day festival in Karnataka.

The five-km procession route right from the imposing 96 year-old Royal palace up to Bannimantap, was flooded with sea of humanity.

Elaborate security arrangements had been made for the Dasara finale in view of the recent serial bomb blasts in various parts of the country, including in Bangalore.

Hours before the start of the procession, people occupied all vantage points, some were even seen perched on tree tops.
With 21 gun salutes, the procession started at 1.15 pm.

Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa showered rose and jasmine petals on Goddess Chamundeshwari's idol, adorning the Golden 'Howdah' (a canopied frame made of 80 kg of gold, which was carried in the procession. The 50 year-old elephant Balarama had the honour of carrying the 'Howdah'.

Tens of varied folk troupes in their colourful costumes and a record number of 47 tableaux featuring the distinct heritage symbols of 28 districts of the state showcased the rich cultural wealth of Karnataka.

The dozen elephants, which also participated in the procession, added an element of grace and splendour.

The indigenously built Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas was an added attraction.

Traditional south Indian 'Nadaswaram' troupes, playing the choicest compositions of Thyagaraja and Purandaradasa compositions, and Carnatic and English bands attached to the police, enthralled the spectators.