Kaveri Kalakshethra was also embellished with elaborate lighting to host the cultural programmes to be held during Dasara. The temples of the ‘shakti devathas’ too have been embellished for the festival.

All the cultural programmes will be held at Kaveri Kalashethra from October 9 to 15 barring the last two days when the programmes will be held at Gandhi Maidan.

Funds

Last year Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa had released Rs 40 lakh for the festival and even this year he had announced the same amount. Since 19 rebel MLAs have withdrawn support given by them to the Government, is the major cause of concern at present.

In case the CM wins the No Confidence Motion mooted against him, then the promised amount will be released and Madikeri Dasara will be celebrated with great pomp and gaiety. With the state political scenario not been all that fine, Dasara Committee office-bearers are worried over the issue whether the amount will be released or not.

Historical background

Madikeri Dasara has a 200-year old history. During the rule of the kings, four Mariammas were prayed by them. Legend has it that when the region was hit by an epidemic, the people started offering prayers to Mariamma. It is believed that the deity cured the disease affecting people. The practice started during crisis has become a ritual.
Accordingly the rituals start three days after the ‘Mahalaya Amavasya’.

Kote Mariamma, Dandina Mariamma, Kundurumotte Chauti Mariamma, Kanchi Kamkshi, in this way, the Mariamma utsav which was being celebrated yearly became popular with construction of mantapas. Today there are 10 mantapas being put up during the Dasara, which has taken face of a competition.

The programme which was started by the local residents of Kodagu, soon became popular after the Dasara celebrations came under the purview of the Town Municipal Council.

Kote Mariamma, Dandina Mariamma, Kanchi Kamakshi, Kote Mahaganapathi, Chaudeshwari, Pete Sri Ram Mandir, Dechur Rama Mandir, Kodandarama Mandira, Kundurumotte and Bhagavathi Dasara Samiti mantapas will be put up this year.