Every year, the historic city of Mysuru transforms into a spectacular canvas of lights and tradition for Dasara, the state’s most iconic festival. The ten-day celebration culminates in the world-famous Royal Dasara Procession, or Jumboo Savari, which will take place on Thursday, October 2, 2025. With elephants in regal attire, vibrant folk performances, and a divine atmosphere, this grand parade is a living showcase of Karnataka’s centuries-old royal heritage.
Mysuru Dasara 2025: Key Event Details
Main Procession (Jumboo Savari) Date: Thursday, October 2, 2025.
Procession Timings: The procession typically begins between 2:45 PM and 3:45 PM.
Palace Illumination: Daily from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM throughout the 10-day festival.
Tickets: General viewing is free along the procession route. For premium seating, look for "Gold Cards" on the official Mysuru Dasara website, released a few weeks before the festival.
Where It All Began: History and Mythology
The origins of Mysuru Dasara date back to the 14th century, during the reign of the Vijayanagar Empire. However, the festival truly gained prominence under the Wodeyar dynasty, which ruled Mysuru for over 600 years. It was the Wodeyars who elevated Dasara from a temple-based religious celebration to a public spectacle of royal grandeur. In particular, Krishnaraja Wodeyar III played a pivotal role in adding new elements to the festivities during the early 19th century, incorporating processions, British influences, and elaborate court rituals that are still seen today.
Mythologically, Mysuru Dasara commemorates the victory of Goddess Chamundeshwari, a form of Durga, over the demon Mahishasura, after whom the city is believed to be named. This triumph of good over evil is not only the symbolic essence of Dasara but also the foundation of its rituals, themes, and celebrations. The Goddess is revered as the presiding deity of the city, and her temple, perched atop Chamundi Hills, becomes a spiritual epicenter during the festival.
What Happens During the Ten-Day Festival
The ten-day celebration begins with special pujas at the Chamundeshwari Temple, followed by daily cultural events at the Mysore Palace, which is illuminated every evening with over 100,000 light bulbs, creating a dazzling backdrop for concerts, dance performances, and art exhibitions. Inside the palace, the Royal Durbar is held, where the current scion of the Wodeyar family ceremonially ascends the Golden Throne, reviving a centuries-old tradition of royal worship and audience.
Throughout the city, events such as exhibitions, fairs, and craft workshops take place. The Dasara Exhibition Grounds become a hub for shopping, local cuisine, traditional games, and handmade crafts. Cultural shows include both classical and folk performances, showcasing Karnataka’s diverse artistic traditions. Food stalls serve local delicacies, with Mysore Pak, the beloved sweet of the region, taking center stage during this time. Markets buzz with shoppers looking for souvenirs, textiles, and artisan products unique to the state.
The Grand Finale: The Royal Procession and Torchlight Parade
The highlight of Mysuru Dasara is undoubtedly the Jumboo Savari, held on Vijayadashami, the final day of the festival. In this royal procession, the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari is placed in a golden howdah atop a caparisoned elephant and paraded through the streets from the Mysore Palace to Bannimantap Grounds. The spectacle is nothing short of majestic. The procession includes other decorated elephants, horses, camels, tableaux representing Karnataka’s cultural heritage, folk dancers, musical troupes, the royal sword, and ceremonial cannon salutes.
This vibrant convergence of spirituality and pageantry reaches its crescendo in the evening with the Torchlight Parade at Bannimantap Grounds. This event features military marches, cultural displays, laser shows, and a fireworks extravaganza, offering a dramatic and unforgettable conclusion to the festival.
Planning Your Visit: How to Be Part of the Celebration
Dates: The festival runs for ten days, with the main procession on Thursday, October 2, 2025.
Getting There: Mysuru is well-connected. The nearest major airport is in Bengaluru (145 km away), from where you can take a scenic 3-hour train or bus ride.
Accommodation: Book your hotels 4-5 months in advance. The city gets completely sold out, and prices surge closer to the festival.
Watching the Procession: The route is several kilometers long. For the best free spots, arrive at least 3-4 hours early. For comfortable, ticketed seating, look for the official "Gold Cards" sold online.
Don't Miss: The daily illumination of the Mysore Palace from 7 PM to 9 PM is a magical sight and a must-do
Why You Shouldn’t Miss Mysuru Dasara
Mysuru Dasara is more than just a festival; it is a living tradition that intertwines history, religion, and cultural pride. Visitors have the chance to witness the grandeur of India’s royal legacy, participate in community celebrations, and immerse themselves in Karnataka’s vibrant music, dance, art, and cuisine. Whether you’re standing along the streets to catch a glimpse of the golden howdah or watching the palace shimmer against the night sky, the experience is deeply enriching and unforgettable.
For those seeking to witness India’s festive spirit at its regal best, Mysuru Dasara is a must-visit cultural landmark that leaves an enduring impression of beauty, devotion, and unity.
