📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Raja Ravi Varma
Religion
Mangaluru Dasara kicks off with Goddess Sharada's ceremonial arrival
✍️ Udayavani
🗓 11 Oct 2026, 08:37 PM
👁 10
The annual Mangaluru Dasara festival commenced today as the idol of Goddess Sharada was brought into the city, marking the opening of the week‑long celebrations.
Mangaluru, Karnataka – The city’s flagship Dasara celebrations began this morning with a grand procession that carried the idol of Goddess Sharada to the main pandal at the Mangaluru Dasara venue. The arrival ceremony was attended by local officials, temple priests and a large gathering of devotees who lined the streets to witness the auspicious moment.
The ritual, known locally as "Sharada Pravesha," is considered the ceremonial opening of the Dasara festivities, which will run for ten days and feature traditional music, dance, and cultural exhibitions. Priests performed a series of Vedic chants and offered flowers to the deity before the idol was placed on a decorated platform.
City authorities have announced a schedule of events that includes folk performances, a parade of decorated elephants, and a fireworks display on the final night. Security measures have been heightened, with police deploying additional personnel to manage crowds and ensure smooth traffic flow.
Organisers expect the festival to draw thousands of visitors from across Karnataka and neighboring states, boosting local tourism and commerce. Vendors have set up stalls selling regional delicacies, handicrafts, and religious paraphernalia, adding to the festive atmosphere.
The ritual, known locally as "Sharada Pravesha," is considered the ceremonial opening of the Dasara festivities, which will run for ten days and feature traditional music, dance, and cultural exhibitions. Priests performed a series of Vedic chants and offered flowers to the deity before the idol was placed on a decorated platform.
City authorities have announced a schedule of events that includes folk performances, a parade of decorated elephants, and a fireworks display on the final night. Security measures have been heightened, with police deploying additional personnel to manage crowds and ensure smooth traffic flow.
Organisers expect the festival to draw thousands of visitors from across Karnataka and neighboring states, boosting local tourism and commerce. Vendors have set up stalls selling regional delicacies, handicrafts, and religious paraphernalia, adding to the festive atmosphere.