Dasara preparations on at brisk pace in Mysore

Mysore, Sep 20 (UNI) The Mysore district administration has made all efforts to complete the preparations for the world famous Dasara festivities here ahead of its commencement on September 23, with final touches being given at a brisk pace.

Addressing mediapersons here, Deputy Commissioner and Special Officer for Festivities S Selva Kumar said number of private parties, including TVS, State Bank of Mysore, Syndicate Bank, Canara Bank and Vijaya Bank have come forward to sponsor various programmes during the Dasara and each of them have assured to pay Rs 15 lakh to organise a music festival in front of the palace from September 23.

The district administration had expected nearly Rs 70 lakh from sponsorships, besides about Rs 50 lakh from sale of gold cards, costing Rs 5,000. Of the total 1,000 gold cards, 750 have already been sold. Gold card holders enjoy seating at vantage points in all Dasara programmes, discounts in business establishments and free entry to tourist spots in and around the city during the ten-day period. Last year's surplus funds of Rs 1.2 crore was also available for the festivities, he added.

Mr Selva Kumar said that amongst many firsts in this year's Dasara was 'Chinnara Dasara for kids, to be held in Kala Mandira from September 26 to 29. Loads of competitions and fun-filled events have been planned for kids, besides a separate category for special children. Noted wildlife experts and film makers Kripakar and Senani would have a session with children. The Builders Association of India, Mysore chapter, would sponsor the event. Other firsts were kite flying competition, karate championship, yoga walk, a sound and light show called 'Karnataka Vaibhavana' and Hasyotsava (festival of humour).

He said almost all roads in the heritage city have been repaired and lighting arrangements were nearing completion.

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