As Mysuru prepares for Dasara, with the first batch of elephants arriving in the city, the official Dasara website (https://www.mysoredasara.gov.in/) remains offline. This has left tourists relying on third‑party platforms for information about the festival. Tourism stakeholders are concerned about the recurring issue and are demanding a reliable digital platform that provides authentic and updated information on Dasara programmes, ticketing, seating arrangements and other facilities throughout the year.
Stakeholders note that the official site usually goes live only during the festival period and stays dormant the rest of the year, creating confusion because programme details and arrangements are often finalised just days before Dasara. “In the absence of a dedicated Dasara authority, different govt departments handle the arrangements. Since the final details are made available only at the last‑minute, tourists find it difficult to plan their visit,” said one stakeholder.
Private websites and social‑media pages have already begun promoting Dasara events, but stakeholders warn that such platforms may not always carry up‑to‑date information. They stress that “Digital content about Dasara should not be created just for a few weeks. Govt needs a proper digital promotion strategy and should maintain the website throughout the year,” and they are also urging the district administration to utilise the rich archive to showcase Dasara worldwide.
Mysuru Deputy Commissioner G Lakshmikantha Reddy assured that the official website would be operational within a week.
SKAL International Mysuru president CJ Jayakumar said stakeholders have so far been kept out of the Dasara preparations. “We want a round‑the‑year website to showcase this event. Every year, the website becomes active for a few days and later becomes idle,” he said, adding that seating‑arrangement details should be announced well in advance to help tourists plan their visit. “So far, everything has been limited to statements,” he concluded.