14 October
By: CA Dr. Vishnu Bharath Alampalli
Vishnu Bharath Alampalli: A Passionate Advocate for Revitalizing Cultural Heritage
I have traveled across the globe and witnessed processions in numerous countries. I was also informed that many of these processions took inspiration from the grandeur of Mysuru Dasara, showcasing their expertise in art, culture, and traditions. These events often create a colorful, visually captivating spectacle.
Regrettably, despite its worldwide fame, I had never seen the Mysuru Dasara procession until this year, when I decided to attend for the first time.
Mysuru Dasara: A Spectacle of Royal Heritage, Culture, and Grandeur
I approached the Mysuru Dasara procession with great anticipation and enthusiasm. Undoubtedly, considerable effort and resources were invested in the event. The street illumination was impressive, with each street uniquely designed, ensuring no two looked alike. The procession commenced amidst rainfall, yet the crowd’s enthusiasm remained undeterred. Many attendees had brought umbrellas, and despite the rain, most stood their ground, reluctant to lose their prime viewing spots, as thousands thronged the streets where the procession was scheduled.
The procession was meticulously planned. A few majestic elephants led the way, followed by open floats representing various departments—Forests, Art Galleries, Culture, etc. Interspersed between these floats were colorfully dressed drum beaters. However, as the procession progressed, it became monotonous, with repetitive drum beats that left me and others disappointed.
The event could have been significantly more engaging and diverse had the organizers included performances from our Military Band, Nadaswaram, Thapalas, and other instrumental ensembles. There was a noticeable absence of innovative, skill-based dances or adventurous performances.
For the amount of effort and money invested, and considering the high expectations of the people, it is time to introduce some fresh elements to the Mysuru Dasara. The organizers must remember that many spectators attend year after year, hoping for something new. What I observed this year was a focus on extending the length of the 4-kilometer procession rather than enhancing its quality. Karnataka, a cradle of diverse traditions, should have showcased the unique talents of its districts to captivate the audience. While the horse parade and band just before the Ambari were commendable, the procession lacked that 'wow' factor.
The Mysuru Dasara, which began under Raja Wodeyar in 1610 and is now in its 415th uninterrupted year, is a heritage that must be preserved and revitalized.
In past years, Mysuru Dasara attracted visitors from all over the world, but this year, the number of foreign tourists was noticeably low. It is my sincere and honest plea to the concerned authorities to take note of this, gather feedback from those who witnessed the procession, and work towards restoring the splendor of the Mysuru Dasara in future editions.