Mysuru: The Karnataka Exhibition Authority (KEA) is preparing an expanded and more innovative Mysuru Dasara Exhibition this year, with models showcasing the achievements of the Indian Defence Forces and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) among the major attractions.
The annual exhibition at Doddakere Maidana, opposite Mysuru Palace, will open to visitors on October 11, the first day of Navaratri, and will remain open for more than 90 days. The Karnataka Exhibition Authority has planned the exhibition with 150 commercial stalls, new technology-based attractions and several entertainment features.
The exhibition is one of the major attractions associated with Mysuru Dasara and is expected to draw visitors from Mysuru and other parts of Karnataka during the festival season.
Defence and ISRO displays planned
One of the key attractions at this year’s exhibition will be displays featuring the achievements and equipment of the Indian Defence Forces and ISRO.
According to the Karnataka Exhibition Authority, models of defence artillery and achievements of the armed forces will be showcased alongside ISRO-related displays.
The initiative is aimed particularly at attracting young people and students, while encouraging interest in careers in the defence services, scientific research and technological applications.
The inclusion of these displays is expected to add an educational component to an exhibition that traditionally combines shopping, entertainment, food and cultural attractions.
360-degree universe experience to add a new dimension
The KEA is also planning an immersive attraction based on a 360-degree super-reality dome, known as Brahmanda Loka.
The attraction is designed around the universe and space, with an immersive presentation that includes themes such as the moon and the wider universe.
The addition is part of the authority’s effort to introduce newer experiences to the Dasara Exhibition and make the venue attractive to younger audiences.
The technology-oriented attractions will complement the traditional cultural and entertainment features of the exhibition.
150 commercial stalls to be occupied
The exhibition is expected to begin with all 150 commercial stalls occupied, according to KEA.
The authority is also working on improving the permanent infrastructure at the exhibition grounds. Construction of 32 permanent stalls and a permanent food court with a weather-proof shelter is under way.
The improvements are intended to provide better facilities for both exhibitors and visitors and strengthen the exhibition infrastructure for future editions.
Popular attractions to return
Several attractions that have traditionally drawn visitors will continue this year.
These include the musical fountain, flower show, cultural events, illumination, laser show, boating and the Rajiv Gandhi Dragon Pond dragon attraction.
The combination of these attractions with the new defence, ISRO and immersive technology displays is expected to give the exhibition a mix of entertainment, education and shopping.
The previous edition recorded around 15 lakh footfalls, according to the Karnataka Exhibition Authority.
₹12.5 crore global tender
KEA has floated a global tender worth ₹12.5 crore for this year’s Dasara Exhibition.
The tender process concluded on September 16, and the contract is expected to be awarded shortly, according to the report.
The authority has been working to complete the required civil works and other arrangements ahead of the October 11 opening.
The exhibition’s extended run is also expected to provide a significant opportunity for traders, businesses and other exhibitors to reach the large number of visitors arriving in Mysuru during and after Dasara.
Government stalls being prepared
The exhibition will also include stalls representing various government departments, boards and corporations.
The KEA has directed the concerned departments and government agencies to ensure that their stalls are completed and operational before the exhibition opens.
The move follows concerns over empty government stalls during the previous edition. The authority wants departments to complete their displays on time so visitors can access information about government programmes, schemes and services.
Dasara attractions spread across Mysuru
The exhibition will form part of the wider Mysuru Dasara celebrations scheduled from October 11 to 21.
The official Dasara programme lists Doddakere Maidana opposite the Palace as the venue for the Dasara Exhibition, while other major events will be held at venues across the city.
The festival programme includes the traditional Jamboo Savari, cultural programmes, food mela, flower show, sports events and other activities.
A Kambala event is also scheduled for October 18 and 19, while drone shows are planned at Bannimantap on multiple days during Dasara.
Focus on innovation and visitor experience
The KEA’s plans indicate an effort to combine the traditional character of the Dasara Exhibition with newer technology-driven attractions.
The defence and ISRO displays could provide students and young visitors with exposure to India’s developments in science, space and defence technology, while the 360-degree universe experience is expected to offer an entertainment-oriented educational experience.
At the same time, traditional attractions such as the musical fountain, flower show, cultural events and illumination will continue to form an important part of the exhibition.
With 150 commercial stalls, permanent infrastructure projects and a planned run of more than 90 days, the exhibition is expected to remain a major visitor destination throughout the Dasara season.
As Mysuru prepares for the annual festival, the expanded exhibition will add another major attraction to the city’s Dasara calendar, bringing together commerce, culture, entertainment, science and technology.