Mandya: Preparations are underway for the 416th edition of the historic Srirangapatna Dasara, with actor V. Ravichandran set to inaugurate the festival on October 15, district in-charge minister N. Chaluvarayaswamy said on Saturday.
Addressing a press conference at the Zilla Panchayat hall, Chaluvarayaswamy said the celebrations would retain their traditional character while providing a platform for cultural programmes and local talent.
The festivities will begin with the Kaveri Arathi near the KRS Reservoir on October 11. Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar is scheduled to inaugurate the programme, which will continue for six days.
Yuva Sambhrama on October 12, 13
The minister said Yuva Sambhrama, organised on the lines of the Mysuru Dasara youth festival, will be held on October 12 and 13. The programme is aimed at providing opportunities for young people and local artists to showcase their talent.
The main Srirangapatna Dasara celebrations will be held from October 15 to 18.
Chaluvarayaswamy said the festival would be organised without compromising on its traditional grandeur despite the prevailing drought situation. He said there would be no reduction in cultural programmes.
Kaveri Arathi to continue for six days
The Kaveri Arathi programme at KRS, introduced last year, will once again be held as part of the festivities. The minister said the event was intended to celebrate Karnataka’s cultural and traditional connection with the Cauvery.
The festival’s official logo was unveiled ahead of the press conference by the minister and other dignitaries.
The design incorporates elements associated with Srirangapatna’s historical and cultural identity. A golden-hued temple gopura at the top represents the historic Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, while the inscription ‘416th’ marks the long history of the festival.
The central circular motif features an adorned elephant carrying the ambari, accompanied by a mahout. Traditional red and gold decorative elements surround the design, while a maroon nameplate carries the words ‘Srirangapatna Dasara’, with ‘Dasara’ prominently displayed in gold.
The logo is intended to reflect the town’s heritage, royal traditions and the festive character of Dasara.
Mandya MLA Ravi Ganiga, Srirangapatna MLA Ramesh Bandisiddegowda, Legislative Council member Dinesh Gooligowda, Cauvery Neeravari Nigam managing director Mahesh, Mandya deputy commissioner Dr Kumar and Zilla Panchayat CEO Nandini were among those present.