The annual Nada Habba Dasara festival has begun in Mysuru, with all roads leading to the city. Festivities kicked off with a traditional puja at Chamundeshwari Temple atop Chamundi Hills, where writer Nadoja Hampa Nagarajaiah paid respects to the presiding deity, Goddess Chamundeshwari. This nine-day celebration, drawing tourists from around the world, will culminate with the grand Vijayadashami procession starting from Mysore Palace on October 12. Nadoja Hampa Nagarajaiah, also known as Hampanna, highlighted the cultural significance of Dasara, recalling childhood memories of playing with dolls at home. The festival was inaugurated by Nadoja Hampa Nagarajaiah, who emphasized the inclusive nature of Karnataka's rich cultural heritage that unites people across the state. Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar, a member of the Mysuru royal family and Parliament, held a private darbar at Mysore Palace. The darbar and puja will occur throughout the nine days of Navratri. Mysuru Dasara will feature a diverse range of cultural events, including performances by Ilaiyaraaja and A R Rahman at Yuva Dasara, a food mela, a flower show, and a book mela. The film festival this year will pay tribute to the late actor-filmmaker Dwarakish.