Siddeshwara Swamiji unveils Dasara

Chief minister Jagadish Shettar says its a long journey from Bellary to Mysore

Siddeshwara Swamiji of Sri Jnana Yogashrama, Bijapur on Tuesday described various hues of Nada Habba Dasara, marking the beginning of 402nd edition of Navaratri at the abode of Goddess Chamundeshwari in the city.

The swamiji said, ‘Dasara is not just a festival but an occasion to invite the whole world to experience the culture and tradition of Kannada nadu.

Also, it sends a clear message to the people from different places to unite at one place.’

The significance of Kannada Nadu, especially Dasara that has the history of over 1,000 years is such that it has garnered the attention of the whole world to savour its splendour.

The land has produced finest of people from the kings to learned sect and also great people thus enhancing its importance.

Save environment

Giving equal emphasis to conserving green, the swamiji gave a clarion call to the people to save environment at least for a happy living.

What made the call apt was, the very hill itself, that is known for abundant natural resources in its womb. Mentioning a popular word among westerners, Swamiji said ‘Love the nature, if you want to live joyfully in the world.’

“Instead of killing trees, plant saplings and also create nests for the birds,” said swamiji who eulogised Mysore as the city known for its natural beauty and also the people.

Chief Minister Jagadish Shettar was happy to note that Dasara this year coincides with the centenary year of Amba Vilas Palace that was dedicated in the year 1912.

It’s being celebrated as a major festival popularising the occasion that saw its birth here due to Wadiyars, the erstwhile rulers of Mysore. From mahanavami dibba during the rule of Vijayanagar kingdom in Bellary to Mysore, it has come a long way, said chief minister tracing the history of Dasara.

Earlier, Siddeshwara Swamiji showered flower petals to the utsava murthy of Goddess Chamundeshwari at 10.56 am giving a start to nine-day festival.

He was accompanied by Chief Minister and his wife Shilpa Jagadish Shettar, minister for medical education and district in-charge S A Ramdas, minister for Kannada and Culture Govinda Karajola, Muzrai minister Kota Srinivasa Poojary, mayor M C Rajeshwari among the host of dignitaries.