Mysuru: The Indian Air Force’s (IAF) aerobatic team, Surya Kiran, will participate in the Dasara Air Show, with Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh confirming the team’s participation yesterday.
However, Sarang, the IAF’s other aerobatic display team, will miss Dasara this year due to prior commitments. In a communication to Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar (DKS), Rajnath Singh stated: “Indian Air Force shall conduct Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team Display in Mysuru during Oct. 18 to 20.”
He added that the participation of the Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team “would add to the grandeur of the celebrations and provide an opportunity for the people of Karnataka to witness professionalism, skill and precision of our Armed Forces.”
Regarding Sarang, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said: “Owing to already approved commitments of the Sarang Display Team during the relevant period, it would not be feasible to deploy the team for the Mysuru Dasara festival this year.”
Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar had sought the participation of both Surya Kiran and Sarang teams in the Mysuru Dasara festivities. He had written to the Defence Minister on Aug. 6, following which the request was examined by the Defence Ministry.
Responding to the confirmation of Surya Kiran, DKS said: “The Government of Karnataka sincerely thanks the Defence Minister for kindly obliging and extending his support in making this possible.”
The Chief Minister added: “This year, we look forward to making the festivities more vibrant, inclusive and memorable than ever.” The Dasara festivities will be inaugurated atop Chamundi Hill in Mysuru on Oct. 11.
Noise will not panic Kambala buffaloes
Meanwhile, concerns over whether the loud aircraft noise during the Air Show could frighten the Kambala buffaloes and cause them to run off the track have been ruled out.
Dasara Kambala (Oct. 18 and 19) coincides with Air Show (Oct. 18 to 20) at a nearby venue.
Sources told SOM that Air Show would not have any negative impact on the event or the animals. A traditional Kambala event is already a highly energetic affair, with venues in regions such as Dakshina Kannada and Udupi filled with the sounds of kombu-kahale, brass bands, chande-maddale drums, continuous commentary and cheering crowds. The race buffaloes are accustomed to such high noise levels and Air Show is therefore unlikely to cause any disruption to the event, sources added.