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| .Navaratri festival and Madore Palace, KA holidify.com |
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| Navaratri festival in Karnataka bestmessage.org |
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| Navaratri in Karnataka Golu. southtourism.in |
Golu is a practice seen more prominently in urban areas, where children and young adults are encouraged to narrate stories from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Puranas, bringing these traditional tales to life. Women and girls often sing devotional songs in front of the Golu, adding a musical touch to the celebrations. This practice, though evolving, helps keep cultural values alive across generations.
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| Kudroli temple,Mangalore, KA readthespirit.com |
In rural parts of Karnataka, especially in villages, Thru Koothu or Yakshagana, a form of traditional folk theatre, is performed during Navaratri. Episodes from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and other Puranas are enacted by local artists, accompanied by music, dance, and dialogues. The performances often last late into the night and serve as a form of both entertainment and education, preserving the local folklore and oral traditions. Although Thru Koothu is facing a decline in some areas due to changing interests, it continues to be a vibrant part of Navaratri celebrations in many villages.
Ayudha Puja and Saraswati Puja
Ayudha Puja and Saraswati Puja are key components of Navaratri across Karnataka, just as in other southern states. The final three days—Durgashtami, Mahanavami, and Vijayadashami—are dedicated to worshipping Goddess Saraswati, the deity of wisdom and learning. Students place their books in the puja room, while artisans and workers worship their tools and equipment, believing these items are the instruments of their livelihood and learning.
Ayudha Puja, observed on Mahanavami, is widely celebrated by vehicle owners, craftsmen, and shopkeepers. On this day, businesses come to a halt as everyone takes the opportunity to offer their prayers and seek blessings for prosperity and success.
Mysore Dasara: The Pride of Karnataka
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| MYsore Palace, Mysore, Navaratri festival discoveringindia.net |
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| Mysore palace, Grand Dasara festival,hellotravel.com |
Above images: Mysore palace, KA. The main attraction of this Dasara procession called Jumboo Savari is the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari which is placed in a golden mandapa (a small temple like structure) atop a decorated elephant. It is carried around the town t. The mandapa is made of pure gold and weighs about 750 kilogram................
One of the most iconic Navaratri celebrations in Karnataka is the Mysore Dasara, a festival that showcases the cultural and royal heritage of the state. Celebrated for ten days, starting with Navaratri and culminating in Vijayadashami, the festival commemorates the victory of Goddess Chamundeshwari (an avatar of Goddess Durga) over the demon king Mahishasura.
The historical significance of Mysore Dasara dates back to the 16th century when it was first celebrated under the Wodeyar dynasty. Even today, the Mysore royal family plays an active role in the festival, adding to its traditional grandeur. The Mysore Palace is adorned with thousands of lights, illuminating the entire city and creating a spectacular visual treat.
Jamboo Savari and Cultural Extravaganza
The highlight of the Mysore Dasara is the Jamboo Savari, the grand procession on Vijayadashami day. A richly decorated elephant carries the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari through the streets, accompanied by a parade of caparisoned elephants, traditional dancers, musicians, and artists displaying their skills. The royal sword, symbolizing the power and protection of the deity, is also carried as a part of the royal tradition.
Throughout the ten days, Mysore hosts music concerts, dance performances, and exhibitions, attracting thousands of visitors. The entire city comes alive with cultural events, showcasing Karnataka’s traditional art forms and crafts. The Mysore Palace, with its intricate lighting and floral decorations, is a major attraction during the festival, drawing both domestic and international tourists.
Mysore Dasara 2024: A Grand Celebration
In 2024, Mysore Dasara is set to begin on October 3rd and end with Vijayadashami on October 12th. The festival is expected to be a grand spectacle, honoring Goddess Chamundeshwari and celebrating Karnataka’s rich cultural heritage. This year, as in the past, thousands of people will gather to witness the Jamboo Savari, attend cultural performances, and experience the timeless grandeur of Mysore Dasara, making it one of the most celebrated and cherished festivals in Karnataka.
https://discoveringindia.net/mysore-dasara-navaratri-celebrations-in-karnataka/
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