Mysuru: Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar described Mysuru Dasara as a celebration of strength, awareness, culture and equality, saying the festival had evolved from a royal celebration into a people’s festival that reflects India’s traditions and democratic values.

“Today’s Dasara is a democratic durbar. Its joy is not limited to Mysuru but spreads across the State. For 11 days, India will be seen through Mysuru,” the CM said.

Shivakumar said Dasara had something for everyone. “It is a festival of colours for children, a platform for artistes, a business opportunity for traders and an unforgettable experience for tourists,” he noted.

“Mysuru’s cultural identity is the result of generations of kings, artistes, craftsmen, musicians, teachers and traders,” he said, highlighting the contribution of Mysore Silk, sandalwood, painting and music to Karnataka’s heritage.

Recalling the legacy of Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar, the CM said initiatives associated with the erstwhile ruler, including Mysore Silk, Mysore sandal soap, Mysore painting, Mysore Pak and the KRS Dam, had helped shape the identity of Mysuru and brought the city recognition beyond Karnataka.

He also spoke about the importance of knowledge and righteousness, drawing a parallel between education and the festival’s message.

“Letters remove the thorn of ignorance with the thorn of knowledge; Dasara removes the thorn of adharma with the thorn of dharma. Seeing God in temples is devotion, but seeing God in human beings is humanity,” he said.

The CM also acknowledged the role of Mutts and their Seers in preserving Karnataka’s culture and contributing to education and social service. Describing them as an important force in society, he said he held them in deep respect.

District Minister Dr. Yathindra Siddaramaiah and Kannada and Culture Minister Shivaraj Tangadagi also spoke.