Dasara

Kannada

Also known as: Vijayadashami, Navratri

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2026 Kannada Date

Dasara

About Dasara

Dasara, also known as Vijayadashami, is the culmination of the ten-day Navratri festival. In Karnataka, it is celebrated as the state festival 'Nada Habba' with grand festivities at the Mysuru Palace.

The festival commemorates the victory of Goddess Chamundeshwari over the demon Mahishasura. The grand finale features a magnificent procession with the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari in a golden howdah atop a decorated elephant.

The celebrations include cultural performances, traditional music and dance, wrestling competitions, and a grand torchlight parade. The entire city of Mysuru is adorned with lights and flowers.

Vrat Vidhi & Fasting Rules

During the ten days of Dasara, many devotees observe fasting and perform daily pujas.

Step-by-Step Fasting Procedures:

Observe fasting or eat only sattvic food during the nine days of Navratri.
Visit temples daily and participate in the special Dasara pujas.
Witness the grand illumination of the Mysore Palace.
Participate in the Vijayadashami procession on the final day.

Parana (Breaking Fast) Note: The fast is broken after the evening puja with a festive meal.

Puja Samagri & Ritual Steps

Essential Puja Samagri:

Goddess Chamundeshwari idol or pictureFlowers and garlandsSweets and fruitsCamphor and incenseSilk cloth for decoration

Puja Procedure:

Prepare the puja area with flowers and silk decorations.
Offer prayers to Goddess Chamundeshwari with traditional rituals.
Participate in the temple ceremonies during the ten days.
Witness the grand procession on Vijayadashami day.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Why is Dasara called Nada Habba in Karnataka?

Nada Habba means 'state festival' in Kannada. Mysuru Dasara is officially celebrated as the state festival of Karnataka due to its historical and cultural significance.

Q: What happens during the Dasara procession?

The grand finale features a magnificent procession with the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari in a golden howdah atop a decorated elephant, accompanied by caparisoned elephants, folk dancers, and cultural performers.

Note: All timings are represented in 24-hour notation in local time of the selected location with DST adjustment (if applicable).

Hours which are past midnight are suffixed with next day date. In Panchang, a day starts and ends with local sunrise.