Noted actor and director V. Ravichandran inaugurating Srirangapatna Dasara in Mandya district on Thursday.
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

The historic Srirangapatna Dasara Mahotsava-2026 got off to a grand start on Thursday, with renowned Kannada film actor and director V. Ravichandran inaugurating the festivities by offering floral tributes to Goddess Chamundeshwari.

The inauguration was held at the Bannimantap near Baburayanakoppal Circle in Kirangur village of Srirangapatna taluk, where special rituals marked the commencement of the celebrations.

The idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari, placed in a 250-kg wooden howdah, received floral tributes from Agriculture Minister P.M. Narendraswamy, Mandya district in-charge Minister N. Cheluvarayaswamy, Municipal Administration Minister H.C. Balakrishna, local MLA A.B. Ramesh Bandisiddegowda, MLA Darshan Puttannaiah, MLC Dinesh Gooligowda and other dignitaries.

Deputy Commissioner Kumar and Superintendent of Police Shobharani V.J. were among the officials present.

Various religious rituals, including the traditional worship of the Shami tree, were performed as part of the celebrations.

The Dasara procession, featuring tusker Dhananjaya carrying the wooden howdah and accompanied by elephants Lakshmi and Roopa, passed through the prominent streets of Srirangapatna. The majestic elephants emerged as a major attraction, drawing the attention of spectators lining the route.

The procession featured 62 cultural troupes and 10 tableaux showcasing Karnataka’s rich cultural heritage, artistic traditions and diversity. The colourful displays and performances added to the festive atmosphere, marking a vibrant beginning to the Srirangapatna Dasara celebrations.

Published – October 15, 2026 07:28 pm IST