Mysuru Dasara 2026: South Indian CMs Invited, Air Show and Drone Show Planned

Karnataka is preparing to make Mysuru Dasara 2026 a larger cultural, tourism and entertainment spectacle, with Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar reviewing arrangements and directing officials to invite the chief ministers of all South Indian states, cultural troupes from across the country and representatives of foreign countries to the celebrations. The government is also exploring an air show, planning a drone show and seeking the participation of the Army, Indian Air Force and Navy in the festivities.

The decisions were taken during a review meeting chaired by Shivakumar on preparations for the annual festival, which will be held from October 11 to 21 and culminate in the iconic Jamboo Savari on October 21. Known as Nada Habba, Karnataka’s state festival has deep links with Mysuru’s royal heritage and remains one of the state’s biggest cultural and tourism events.

The government’s invitation plan covers the four other southern states - Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay and Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan.

Alongside the political leaders, ambassadors and representatives of various countries are also expected to be invited, giving the celebrations a broader interstate and international character. Cultural troupes from different states will be invited to perform, while officials have been asked to ensure participation from artists representing all regions of Karnataka.

Preparations for the traditional Jamboo Savari are already underway. The first batch of nine Dasara elephants received a ceremonial welcome at Mysuru Palace, while a total team of 12 elephants has been selected for the festivities. The animals undergo acclimatisation, health monitoring, training and dietary management to prepare them for crowds, music and the demanding ceremonial procession.

The government is also seeking participation from the Army, Indian Air Force and Navy in the Dasara tableau and parade. An air show is being considered, with Shivakumar discussing the possibility with the Union Defence Minister. However, the air show remains subject to coordination and approval from the concerned authorities. A drone show is separately being planned, although its venue, dates and scale are yet to be finalised.

The celebrations are also expected to bring together ISRO, DRDO, prominent educational institutions, the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce and other Central government organisations. Their participation could add themes of science, technology, defence, education and national development to the festival tableaux.

The programme will extend beyond traditional events, with plans for a Chitra Santhe, flea market, vintage car rally and rangoli competition. Another major attraction is Kambala, the traditional coastal Karnataka buffalo race, approved for October 18 and 19, with more than 120 buffalo pairs expected. The proposal has also sparked objections from Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar and raised environmental concerns.