Mysuru: Though several foreign ambassadors and other diplomats attended Jumboo Savari upon State Government’s  invitation on Wednesday, the event failed to attract foreign tourists on expected lines, much to the disappointment of the Government.

The Karnataka Government had invited diplomats of 160 countries, out of which ambassadors and diplomats of some countries took part in the grand finale of the 11-day Dasara festivities. These diplomats were received by Minister for Higher Education Basavaraj Rayareddy at the Palace premises.

Though foreign diplomats arrived, the lack of foreign tourists who used to arrive in large numbers in past years, has disappointed the authorities. Only a handful of foreign tourists could be seen here and there on the entire Raja Marga route.

CM’s wife too performs ‘Pushparchane’

Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar’s wife Usha who accompanied her husband, too performed ‘Pusparchane’ to the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari placed in the Golden Howdah, during the launch of Jumboo Savari. This was perhaps the first time that the wife of a CM performed ‘Pushparchane’ along with her husband.

‘No Man’s land’

 As a security measure, the authorities had restricted entry to officials, photographers, videographers etc., in 500 ft. distance  from the spot where the CM and other dignitaries sat for watching procession.

The Police had made the spot a ‘No Man’s land’ to prevent any loud noises or nuisance and thus facilitate undisturbed viewing by the CM.

Another speciality this year, was the erection of water proof pandal in the Palace premises. In the past, cloth pandals used to be erected. But for the first time, water proof pandal was erected. The pandal was also fitted with jumbo fans.

Along with CM D.K. Shivakumar, Chief Minister of Keralam V.D. Satheesan and Telangana CM Revanth Reddy too were present. Shivakumar had invited the CM’s of neighbouring States to take part in the event, thus setting a new precedent.

Palace gate closed at 12 noon

The Dasara ticket and official  pass holders were strictly asked to enter the Palace premises before 11.30 am on Wednesday and take their seats. Later, all the  Palace gates were shut at 12 noon. However, some of the visitors who arrived late, begged for entry, following which the Police in a display of sympathy, allowed them into the Palace premises as a gesture.

English dominated commentary

The commentary of Jumboo Savari procession was dominated by English, leaving little scope for Kannada. The crowd which comprised mostly of Kannadigas, especially those from rural areas, were left a disappointed lot, as they could not understand English language commentary . Many among the crowd were seen cursing the commentators for using English language more than  Kannada.

The Police had made elaborate security arrangements both inside and outside the Palace premises and all along the procession route.