Mysuru (Karnataka), July 11 (IANS) Karnataka BJP on Saturday opposed the proposal to include Kambala in the Mysuru Dasara celebrations, saying it would dilute the festival’s unique heritage and cultural identity.
Speaking to reporters in Mysuru, Karnataka BJP President and MLA B.Y. Vijayendra urged the state government to preserve the sanctity and traditional character of the world-famous Dasara festival.
“The sanctity and uniqueness of Mysuru Dasara must be protected. The government should not take any step that diminishes its grandeur and heritage,” he said.
Vijayendra said Mysuru Dasara has its own distinct history, traditions and cultural significance, which should be safeguarded regardless of which party is in power.
“Every government has the responsibility to preserve the festival’s legacy and unique identity. Mysuru Dasara is known for its own traditions,” he said, adding that Mysuru-Kodagu MP Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar had already raised concerns over the proposal.
Drawing a distinction between the two cultural events, Vijayendra said Kambala is an integral part of the culture of the coastal Dakshina Kannada region and should continue to be celebrated there.
“You cannot hold Mysuru Dasara in Kalaburagi, just as Kambala belongs to coastal Karnataka. During the BJP government, former Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa had extended financial support to Kambala. It reflects the culture of Dakshina Kannada and should continue to be celebrated there in a grand manner,” he said.
Criticising the state government, Vijayendra alleged that the decision was taken without adequate consultation.
“The Chief Minister should not have taken such a decision without proper discussion. The government should not make it an issue of prestige. It should set aside its stubbornness and work towards preserving Karnataka’s cultural traditions,” he added.
It may be noted that Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H.D. Kumaraswamy on Saturday opposed the Karnataka government’s proposal to include Kambala in the Mysuru Dasara celebrations, saying there was no need to alter the traditional character of the world-famous festival.
The Karnataka government’s proposal to organise the traditional coastal sport Kambala during the world-famous Mysuru Dasara celebrations has sparked controversy, setting the stage for a confrontation between the state government and the Mysuru royal family.
While Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has indicated that the government is considering new cultural programmes as part of the festival, the royal family, BJP leaders and several civil society groups have opposed the move, arguing that it would alter the unique traditions of Mysuru Dasara.
Following the preliminary meeting on Dasara-2026 held at the Vidhana Soudha on Friday, Shivakumar announced that Gaja Puja would be held on August 26 at 10 a.m. The official inauguration of Dasara has been scheduled for October 11 at 11.50 a.m. The traditional Jamboo Savari and Nandi Puja will take place on October 21 at 1.30 p.m., followed by the Pushparchane (floral offering) for the Jamboo Savari at 4.10 p.m.
The government has maintained that the festival will incorporate new programmes while preserving Karnataka’s cultural traditions. However, whether Kambala ultimately becomes part of Mysuru Dasara is expected to be decided after further consultations within the government and the Dasara High-Power Committee.
–IANS
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