World famous Dasara festivities begin in Mysore

Mysore, Sep 23 (UNI) The world famous Dasara festivities began in this historic city today with the lighting of the traditional lamp and a special puja of Goddess Chamumdeshwari, the main deity, atop Chamundi hills.

Continuing the tradional link, Mr Srikantadatta Narasimharaja Wodeyar, scion of the Mysore royal family, began the festivities by performing a puja inside the palace.

He will also observe religious chores as laid down by the texts.

He ascended the priceless golden throne witnessed by royal family members and special invitees.

Renowned writer and freedom fighter G Narayana inaugurated the festivities by lighting the lamp in front of the temple. Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa presided over the function and worshiped the goddess inside the temple.

Mr Narayana, speaking on the occasion, said the Dasara celebrations symbolise unity and diversity of the state as well as the country. It will give the people an opportunity to understand each other by meeting at one place.

He recalled the days when the Dasara festivities began in 1601 during the time of the Vijayanagar empire to celebrate the victory good over evil.

He thanked the State government which for contending the traditional aspect in the festivities and it is a pride occasion to the state. This festival is conducted as ''Nadda Habba'' for the welfare of the state as well as the well being of the people of the state.

Mr Yediyurappa announced that the government would soon constitute a Karnataka Cultural Authority to protect the cultural wealth of the state. It would look after the cultural and heritage issues of the state.

Stating that the Dasara festivities will also provide an opportunity to give boost to the tourism in this part of the state particulary the city of palaces, which is already among the tourist destinations of the country.

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