Sir,

This refers to the recent news in Star of Mysore that the Air Show during Mysuru Dasara will be a ticketed event. While the importance of safety measures is well understood, we request that the authorities kindly reconsider this decision.

To witness Dasara inside the Mysore Palace premises and the Torchlight Parade at Bannimantap, entry is already through tickets and passes, which the common man may not always have the privilege to access.

Making the Air Show also ticketed would mean that the public, especially those who cannot afford it, would be deprived of one more unique event that has always been a highlight of Dasara celebrations.

The public looks forward to such programmes as a source of joy, pride and entertainment. A similar attempt to impose fees for the Flower Show in the Palace was withdrawn in the past, respecting people’s sentiments.

We believe the same spirit should prevail here.

At least for the Air Show, free entry may kindly be allowed with all necessary precautions and regulated arrangements to ensure crowd safety, so that everyone can equally experience and celebrate the true spirit of Mysuru Dasara — a festival meant for the people.

– Pradeep Mysore Rajshekar, Mysuru, 8.9.2025

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