The Karnataka government, led by Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, has begun preparations for a larger Mysuru Dasara in 2026, planning to invite the chief ministers of all southern states, cultural troupes from across India, and contingents of the Indian Army, Air Force and Navy, alongside new public attractions.
A meeting chaired by the chief minister at Shakti Bhavan in Bengaluru decided to extend invitations to the southern state chief ministers and to cultural troupes from different states to showcase India’s diverse traditions.
The government will also invite the Indian Army, Air Force and Navy to take part in tableaux and ceremonial events, and will extend invitations to leading educational institutions, the film industry, ISRO, DRDO and other central organisations. The possibility of an air show will be discussed with the Union Defence Minister, and a drone show is being considered. Ambassadors and officials from various countries are expected to be invited to give the celebrations an international character.
Officials have been directed to launch new public events including an art exhibition, flea market, vintage car rally and rangoli competition, and to provide performance opportunities for cultural groups representing different regions of Karnataka. Seating arrangements will be organised to ensure ticket‑holding visitors face no inconvenience.
The chief minister has assigned one minister, together with the district in‑charge minister, to supervise the arrangements each day.
As part of a new publicity drive, short films highlighting Mysuru Palace and other major tourist attractions will be produced and widely promoted to showcase the city’s tourism potential and cultural heritage.
Combining cultural programmes with military displays, an air show, a drone show and the newly announced public events, the government aims to make Mysuru Dasara 2026 a larger and more diverse celebration.