Abhinava Gavisiddeshwara formally invited to inaugurate Mysuru Dasara
Deputy Commissioner of Mysuru G. Lakshmikanth Reddy, who also serves as the Special Officer for the Dasara festival, led a delegation to Gavimath in Koppal on Sunday to formally invite Abhinava Gavisiddeshwara to inaugurate Mysuru Dasara 2026. The seer has been requested to launch the festivities atop Chamundi Hills on October 11.
Formal Invitation at Gavimath
According to an official release, Mr. Reddy travelled with members of the Mysuru Dasara Reception Committee and extended the formal invitation to the seer upon arriving at Gavimath around 2 p.m. The delegation sought the Swamiji’s presence at the commencement of this year’s festivities and presented the traditional honours, including flowers and fruits.
The Mysuru team comprised Deputy Commissioner G. Lakshmikanth Reddy, Mysuru Zilla Panchayat Chief Executive Officer Yukesh Kumar, Chamundeshwari Hill Development Authority secretary M.J. Roopa, and deputy secretary M. Basavaraj. They were joined by Koppal Deputy Commissioner Suresh Itnal and Koppal Zilla Panchayat CEO Varnit Negi during the visit.
Visit and Ritual Observances
During the visit, Abhinava Gavisiddeshwara Swamiji invited the officials to partake of prasada at Gavimath. Later, Mr. Reddy and Mr. Yukesh Kumar ascended the hill at the mutt complex and had darshan of the Karthru Gadde, regarded as the sacred seat associated with the founder of the mutt, the release said.
The delegation expressed appreciation for the lush greenery and the clean, serene environs of Gavimath, noting the well-maintained surroundings during their tour of the premises.
Significance of Gavisiddheshwara Jatra
Officials also viewed photographs highlighting the scale and devotional importance of the Gavisiddheshwara Jatra, which is popularly described as the “Kumbh Mela of South India” owing to the vast gathering of devotees. Briefing his Mysuru counterpart, Koppal Deputy Commissioner Suresh Itnal outlined the unique features of the Jatra, during which lakhs of devotees participate and arrive bearing agricultural produce and food grains.
Next Steps for Dasara 2026
With the formal invitation extended, preparations continue for the inauguration of Mysuru Dasara 2026 on October 11 at Chamundi Hills. As Special Officer for the festival, Mr. Reddy is overseeing coordination with religious leaders and local administrations to ensure a smooth commencement to the annual celebrations.
Published: October 4, 2026
