Mysuru: From Mysuru Pak and the iconic Mysuru masala dosa to premier institutions such as IISc and HMT, this year’s Vijayadashami procession promises a vibrant showcase of Karnataka’s culinary heritage, scientific achievements, industrial legacy and cultural diversity.Scheduled to be held on Oct 21, the grand Dasara procession will feature an eclectic mix of tableaux presented by govt agencies, educational institutions, cultural groups and private organisations. For the first time in recent years, private organisations have been included alongside govt departments, adding a new dimension to the event.Preparations for the procession are being coordinated by Dasara Tableaux Sub-Committee headed by IAS officer Sheikh Tanveer Asif, director of State Institute of Rural Development.According to sources, a record 11 central govt agencies will take part in this year’s procession. These include IISc, Hindustan Machine Tools (HMT), CSIR-National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL), Power Grid Corporation of India, Coffee Board, Indian Army, Indian Navy, BEML, Indian Railways, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA).Adding to the diversity of the parade, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Tibetan settlement, KLE Society and Koragajja community will also present tableaux highlighting their unique traditions and cultural identities. A tableau based on the Bharat Jodo theme is expected to be another attraction.Bringing a distinctly local flavour to the celebrations, Karnataka State Hotel Association will showcase Mysuru Pak and Mysuru masala dosa, two culinary icons synonymous with the city. Mysuru Hotels Association president C. Narayana Gowda said the tableau would highlight the traditional and popular dishes that have earned Mysuru a special place on Karnataka’s culinary map. “The opportunity to participate in the procession for the first time is a matter of pride for us,” he said.The Vijayadashami procession remains the biggest attraction of the Dasara festivities, drawing lakhs of spectators from across India and abroad. With a line-up of tableaux, colourful folk troupes and representations from diverse institutions and communities, this year’s procession is expected to offer a memorable visual spectacle as it moves from Mysuru Palace premises to Banni Mantapa Grounds.
