‘Sit Down!’: Siddaramaiah Addresses Unruly Audience at Mysuru Dasara Inauguration

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed his frustration during the Mysuru Dasara festival's inauguration. While addressing the crowd, he pointed at some attendees, criticising them for their disruptive behaviour. The Chief Minister was heard saying in Kannada, "Can't you sit for a little while? Sit down. Who is that? If I tell you once, don't you understand? Why did you even come here? You should have stayed at home."

The Mysuru Dasara festival, known as 'Nada Habba' or the state festival, began with great enthusiasm in the city and its palaces. This year's celebrations were inaugurated by Banu Mushtaq, an International Booker Prize-winning author. Mushtaq initiated the 11-day event during the auspicious "Vrushchika Lagna" by showering flowers on Goddess Chamundeshwari's idol at Chamundi Hills' temple.

Mysuru Dasara Celebrations Begin

During the ceremony, priests chanted Vedic hymns as part of the rituals. Siddaramaiah later defended his government's choice to invite Mushtaq as the chief guest. He stated that most people in Karnataka supported this decision, which brought honour to the state. "Dasara is not a festival of any one religion or caste; it is a festival of all," Siddaramaiah emphasised.

The Chief Minister further instructed police officers present not to allow those unruly audience members to leave. He questioned their attendance if they couldn't remain seated for half an hour or an hour. The incident highlighted Siddaramaiah's commitment to maintaining decorum during such significant events.

Significance of Mysuru Dasara

The Mysuru Dasara festival, also referred to as Sharan Navaratri, will continue for 11 days. It offers a vibrant display of Karnataka's rich culture and traditions while providing a glimpse into its royal heritage. The event holds immense cultural significance and attracts numerous visitors each year.

Siddaramaiah reiterated that Dasara is a celebration for everyone in Karnataka, transcending religious and caste boundaries. His remarks underscored the inclusive nature of the festival and its importance as a unifying event for the people of Karnataka.

The Chief Minister's actions during the inauguration reflect his dedication to ensuring that such cultural events are conducted with respect and orderliness. As the festivities progress, attendees can look forward to experiencing Karnataka's diverse cultural offerings and historical splendour.