
The grand stage for the inauguration of Mysuru Dasara 2025 (Nada Habba) on the premises of Sri Chamundeshwari Temple atop Chamundi Hills in Mysuru on September 22, 2025.
| Photo Credit: MA Sriram
The stage is set for inauguration of Mysuru Dasara 2025 atop Chamundi Hills in Mysuru amid unprecedented security.
Noted writer Banu Mushtaq, winner of the prestigious Booker prize, is scheduled to make floral offering to the idol of Chamundeshwari between 10.10 and 10.40 am in a stage set up outside Chamundeshwari temple.
Heightened security
Visitors including the media had to pass through several layers of security to reach the venue of inauguration. Visitors were not only asked to show their identity cards, but also frisked at the venue. Black caps and black handkerchiefs were also not allowed to be taken in by the visitors.

Unprecedented security outside Sri Chamundeshwari Temple atop Chamundi hills in Mysuru ahead of inauguration of Mysuru Dasara 2025 festivities by International Booker prize winner Banu Mushtaq, on September 22, 2025.
| Photo Credit:
M A Sriram
Entry to Chamundeshwari Temple, which used to be open for devotees till an hour before the inauguration during the previous years, was closed early on Monday (September 22, 2025) morning.
Entry of private vehicles to Chamundi Hills without valid passes was also barred.
A note from the Information Department said photographers and videographers will not be allowed in the sanctum sanctorium of the temple during the pooja before the inauguration due to paucity of space.
The run up to Mysuru Dasara 2025 was marked by opposition and protests by the Opposition BJP over the State Government’s decision to invite Ms. Banu Mushtaq to inaugurate the festival.
Published – September 22, 2025 09:53 am IST


