21-day illumination & massive show with 3,500 drones on Oct. 17, 18, 20 and 21

Mysuru: The colourful illumination, one of the major attractions of Mysuru Dasara, which was inaugurated by Energy and Tourism Minister K.J. George by switching on the lights at the ‘Hasiru Chappara’ on Sayyaji Rao Road, has become a hit among the visitors from both within and outside the city.

Proof of this can be seen with the bumper-to-bumper traffic on city roads once the lights are switched on by 6 pm till they are switched off at around 11 pm.

The Chamundeshwari Electricity Supply Corporation (CESC) has executed the illumination works, as in previous years. The city will sparkle with colourful lights for 21 days, until Oct. 31, adding to the festive atmosphere.

A major attraction this year will be the drone show, featuring new designs and special effects at Torchlight Parade Grounds, Bannimantap. In 2024, 1,500 drones were used, while 3,000 drones created spectacular visuals in 2025, including the image of the tiger, India’s national animal. The show earned CESC an entry in Guinness Book of World Records.

This year, 3,500 drones will be deployed for the shows on Oct. 17, 18, 20 and 21 at 8 pm.

The illumination covers 199 roads spanning 146 km and 123 circles, each featuring different lighting themes. In addition, 80 LED-based installations have been set up at key locations across the city.