On October 11 the world‑famous Mysore Dasara Mahotsava was ceremonially inaugurated at Chamundi Hill in Mysuru. The ritual was led by Koppal’s Gavisiddeshwara Swamiji, who performed pushparchane—floral worship—to the presiding deity Chamundeshwari. The act marked the start of the festivities and connected the celebration to the hill’s long‑standing spiritual significance.
The inauguration was attended by Karnataka’s Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, who arrived with his wife Usha. Alongside him sat a group of state ministers: Yatindra Siddharamappa, Shivaraj Sangappa Tangadagi, Eshwara Khandre, Ajay Singh and Ramalinga Reddy. Former ministers Dr. H.C. Mahadevappa, K. Venkatesh and Tanveer Seth were also present, as was MP Sunil Bose and the heads of various mutts from across Karnataka. Members of the public filled the grounds, underscoring the festival’s broad appeal.
At the Mysuru Dasara 2026 inauguration, Dr. Yathindra Siddaramaiah highlighted CM D.K. Shivakumar’s commitment and dedication, highlighting the government’s guarantee schemes and initiatives for farmers. 🙌 @DKShivakumar @Dr_Yathindra_S https://t.co/ZOd3JdXU9l
The Swamiji’s pushparchane involved laying flowers at the feet of the goddess Chamundeshwari, a traditional act of reverence that signals the deity’s blessing for the coming days. This ritual, rooted in local custom, was described by observers as a vivid expression of devotion that set the tone for the celebrations to follow.
Reports state that over 146 kilometres of roads were lined with lights, turning the urban landscape into a glowing network that could be seen from afar.
After the floral worship, Gavisiddeshwara Swamiji spoke about the meaning of Dasara. He said, "Dasara is not just a festival, it is a symbol of the state's cultural richness and unity." His words linked the pageantry of the event to a broader idea of communal harmony that resonates throughout Karnataka.
Gavi Matha's Swamiji inaugurates the world famous Mysuru Dasara. Well done CM @DKShivakumar He is the best choice. The prior years' invitees were controversial. But you have invited a Swamiji who is well respected. Thanks!
A second inauguration took place on October 4, 2026, when the same Swamiji—referred to in the reports as Sri Abhinava Gavisiddeshwara Mahaswamiji—officially commenced the 2026 Mysore Dasara festival. This ceremony marked the formal start of the year’s programme of events, confirming that the celebrations observed on Chamundi Hill were part of the larger state‑wide observance.
To honour the occasion, the city of Mysore was extensively decorated. Reports state that over 146 kilometres of roads were lined with lights, turning the urban landscape into a glowing network that could be seen from afar. The scale of the illumination underscores the festival’s prominence and the effort made to welcome visitors and residents alike.
Grand start for Mysuru Dasara festivities; Gavi mutt seer helms inauguration https://t.co/Sv2XdXcls8 https://t.co/aF9O23oG99
With the lights glowing, a series of cultural programmes, food festivals and wrestling matches began. The schedule noted that the cultural programme inauguration was set for 5 o’clock, signalling the start of performances that would showcase music, dance and traditional arts. Food stalls offered regional delicacies, while wrestling bouts added a competitive, popular‑sport dimension to the festivities.
Together, the floral ritual on the hill, the illuminated streets and the varied daytime events create a picture of a celebration that respects ancient customs while embracing contemporary forms of entertainment. The combination of spiritual observance, public spectacle and community participation reflects the layered character of Mysore Dasara.
As the days progress, the city continues to glow under its 146‑kilometre stretch of light, the cultural stages host performers, the food courts serve locals and travelers, and the wrestling arena draws crowds. The festival, inaugurated by the Swamiji’s words and actions, moves forward as a living symbol of Karnataka’s cultural richness and the unity it seeks to celebrate.