Mysore Dasara and Navaratri 2025 and Jamboo Savari

Mysore Dasara 2025 is set to be a spectacular celebration, blending centuries-old traditions with vibrant cultural festivities. The event will be held from September 22 to October 2, 2025, with the inauguration at Chamundi Hills and culminating in the grand Jamboo Savari elephant procession on Vijayadashami (October 2).

The celebrations are deeply spiritual, culturally rich, and filled with rituals performed by the royal family. This blog provides a complete guide on how Dasara and Navaratri are celebrated in Mysore, with detailed event schedules, historical insights, daily rituals, and official booking information.

The History of Mysore Dasara and the Role of the Maharaja

The Mysore Dasara festival has royal roots, tracing back to the Wodeyar dynasty. The kings of Mysore, known for their patronage of arts and culture, transformed this festival into a grand state event. The Maharaja of Mysore, historically the head of the celebrations, used to lead the procession and offer prayers at Chamundipete before commencing the royal parade.

Today, the current Maharaja, Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wodeyar, continues the tradition by performing rituals along with his family. Every year, the Maharaja and his family offer prayers to Goddess Chamundeshwari at the Chamundi temple, participate in the palace pooja, and inaugurate the celebrations by lighting lamps and offering floral tributes.

Spiritual Connection: Chamundi Hills and Chamundipete

The spiritual center of the festival is Chamundipete, located atop Chamundi Hills. It is believed that Goddess Chamundeshwari defeated the demon Mahishasura here, marking the victory of good over evil. During Navaratri in Mysore, devotees climb the hill daily to perform pooja and seek blessings.

The inauguration on September 22, 2025, begins with rituals at this sacred hill, performed by priests and attended by the royal family. Every day, thousands of devotees visit the temple, participate in prayers, and enjoy cultural activities organized by the state.

Jamboo Savari – The Grand Finale of Mysore Dasara

The highlight of Dasara in Mysore is the Jamboo Savari, the royal procession held on Vijayadashami (October 2, 2025). The decorated elephant Abhimanyu, leading the parade for the sixth time, carries the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari through the streets of Mysore. The procession is accompanied by traditional music, folk dances, decorated chariots, and thousands of devotees lining the streets.

An IAF air show will also be organized as part of the event, with passes available for booking. This blend of tradition and modern spectacle makes the Jamboo Savari a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

For official booking and more details, visit the Karnataka Tourism portal: https://www.karnatakatourism.org

How the Festival Unfolds: Daily Events and Rituals

Below is a table outlining each day’s rituals, events, colours, and cultural performances:

Oct 2, 2025 – Vijayadashami
The final day is reserved for the Jamboo Savari, where the Maharaja, dressed in royal attire, leads the procession. The day includes the grand parade, an IAF air show, and community gatherings that conclude the celebrations.

How and Why Each Ritual is Performed

How the Maharaja and Royal Family Participate

• The royal family begins with pooja at Chamundipete during the inauguration.
  
• They participate in processions and temple offerings daily.
  
• On Vijayadashami, the Maharaja leads the Jamboo Savari and offers prayers at Mysore Palace.
  

Why Chamundeshwari is Worshipped

The goddess is believed to protect the city from evil forces. Her victory over Mahishasura is symbolic of the triumph of righteousness. Wearing specific colours enhances the spiritual energy associated with each form of the goddess.

Stories Behind Each Day of Navaratri

• Day 1 (Shailaputri) – Worshipped as the daughter of the Himalayas, she symbolizes strength and endurance.
  
• Day 2 (Brahmacharini) – Represents austerity and devotion, teaching resilience.
  
• Day 3 (Chandraghanta) – Known for her protective powers, invoked during difficult times.
  
• Day 4 (Kushmanda) – Said to have created the universe with a smile, spreading positivity.
  
• Day 5 (Skandamata) – Protector of children, representing maternal love.
  
• Day 6 (Katyayani) – A warrior goddess who destroys negativity and empowers devotees.
  
• Day 7 (Kalaratri) – Associated with healing and confronting fears.
  
• Day 8 (Mahagauri) – Encourages forgiveness and purity of heart.
  
• Day 9 (Siddhidatri) – Grants wisdom and spiritual power, guiding seekers toward enlightenment.
  

How to Book and Participate in Mysore Dasara 2025

• Visit the official Karnataka Tourism portal to book event passes and accommodations: https://www.karnatakatourism.org
  
• Apply for IAF air show passes through the portal, as seats are limited.
  
• Participate in rituals at Chamundipete early in the morning.
  
• Attend performances at Mysore Palace in the evening.
  
• Follow recommended dress colours for spiritual alignment.
  
• Explore local fairs, handicrafts, and food stalls.
  

Conclusion

Dasara and Navaratri in Mysore are more than just festivals—they are a spiritual journey enriched with culture, devotion, and royal heritage. From the sacred rituals at Chamundipete to the grand Jamboo Savari, every day offers unique experiences rooted in tradition and celebration.

This year’s Mysore Dasara 2025, from September 22 to October 2, promises to be a magnificent spectacle. Whether you’re attending for the rituals, the royal presence of the Maharaja, or the cultural performances, this festival is an unforgettable experience.

Learn how to plan your visit, participate in daily events, and connect with Mysore’s spiritual heritage through this detailed guide.

For bookings and event details, visit https://www.karnatakatourism.org.

Celebrate, explore, and immerse yourself in the grandeur of Mysore Dasara this year!