Mysore Dasara 2025: Dates, Significance, and Grand Celebrations of Karnataka's Nada Habba

Get ready to be enchanted as Mysore prepares to host its world-renowned annual festival, Dasara, often hailed as 'Nada Habba' or the 'State Festival' of Karnataka. In 2025, this spectacular 10-day extravaganza promises to be an unforgettable journey into tradition, culture, and spiritual fervor, unfolding from October 1st to October 10th.

The celebrations will culminate in the auspicious Vijaya Dashami on October 10th, marking the triumphant victory of good over evil.

Mysore Dasara is steeped in rich history and profound spiritual significance. It commemorates the legendary victory of Goddess Chamundeshwari over the buffalo-headed demon Mahishasura, an event from which Mysore city itself is believed to derive its name.

For centuries, this festival has been a beacon of devotion and celebration, initially championed by the Vijayanagara Empire and later grandly continued by the Wadiyar dynasty of Mysore, who elevated it to the magnificent spectacle we witness today.

The festival commences with the installation of a grand idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari atop the Chamundi Hills, followed by a series of sacred rituals.

Over the nine nights of Navratri, devotion takes center stage as various forms of Goddess Durga are worshipped with elaborate pujas and ceremonies across the state. The illuminated Mysore Palace, adorned with thousands of bulbs, becomes a truly breathtaking sight, drawing visitors from across the globe to marvel at its ethereal glow.

Beyond the religious rites, the city transforms into a vibrant hub of cultural activity. Expect a delightful array of music concerts, classical dance performances, captivating wrestling tournaments, and illuminating exhibitions that showcase Karnataka's rich artistic heritage.

The crescendo of the celebrations arrives on Vijaya Dashami, October 10th, with the iconic 'Jamboo Savari.' This magnificent elephant procession is the undisputed highlight of Mysore Dasara.

Led by the majestic lead elephant carrying the Golden Howdah (Ambari), which houses the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari, the procession winds its way from the regal Mysore Palace to the Banni Mantapa grounds. Adorned elephants, horses, folk dancers, musical troupes, and vibrant tableaux depicting various cultural and historical themes join this grand parade, creating a mesmerizing kaleidoscope of sound and color.

The festivities don't end there! As dusk settles, the Banni Mantapa ground lights up once more for the traditional 'Panjina Kavayatthu' or the Torchlight Parade.

This spectacular event features daring acrobatic displays, equestrian feats, and a breathtaking fireworks show, marking a dazzling conclusion to the 10-day celebrations. Mysore Dasara is more than just a festival; it's an immersive cultural experience, a vibrant tapestry woven with devotion, history, and unparalleled grandeur.

Mark your calendars for October 2025 and prepare to be captivated by the magic of Nada Habba!