Mysuru: The organisers of the Mysuru Dasara cake show have come under criticism after visitors were reportedly charged ₹60 per person to enter the exhibition, including to view a special cake theme honouring Khempananjammanni, who is remembered for her sacrifice for the kingdom.
The entry fee has triggered objections from members of the public, who questioned why they were required to pay to view the special display during the Dasara festivities. The organisers reportedly responded dismissively to visitors who asked whether entry was free, further fuelling the controversy.
The issue has also raised questions about the involvement of private organisers and sponsors in an event associated with the state’s annual Dasara celebrations.
Visitors question ₹60 entry fee
The cake show has attracted attention during Mysuru Dasara, but the decision to charge ₹60 per visitor has become a point of contention.
According to complaints from members of the public, every visitor is being asked to pay ₹60 to enter the exhibition. Those who questioned the fee reportedly asked organisers why an event held as part of the Dasara celebrations required a separate payment.
Visitors were particularly upset about having to pay to see the cake display dedicated to Khempananjammanni, a historical figure whose sacrifice is being commemorated through the exhibition’s theme.
The objections have centred on the expectation that visitors should be able to access public festival attractions without facing unexpected charges. The complaints have also prompted questions about whether the entry fee and its conditions were adequately communicated to the public.
Khempananjammanni theme becomes part of controversy
One of the attractions at the cake show is a display themed around Khempananjammanni and her sacrifice for the state.
The choice of a historical theme has added significance to the exhibition, as Mysuru Dasara is closely associated with the region’s cultural heritage and royal history.
However, visitors who objected to the entry charge questioned why they should have to pay separately to view a display presented in connection with the festival.
The controversy is therefore not limited to the amount being charged. It also concerns public expectations surrounding access to attractions organised during a major cultural celebration.
Allegations over private organisers and sponsors
Criticism has also been directed at the district administration over the role of private organisers and sponsors in conducting the cake show.
Critics have alleged that the event has effectively been handed over to private interests in the name of sponsorship. They have questioned whether the arrangements adequately protect the interests of the public attending the festival.
The allegations have not, however, been independently established. Details of the agreement between the organisers, sponsors and district administration, including the terms governing entry charges and revenue, were not available in the information provided.
Clarification from the administration and organisers would help establish how the event was awarded, whether the ₹60 fee was formally approved and what arrangements were made for public access.
Rachita Ram’s appearance draws attention
The cake show is also being promoted through social media influencers and publicity activities, according to the complaints. Kannada actor Rachita Ram was mentioned as an attraction associated with the exhibition.
Visitors have questioned the need to pay the entry fee to see the displays and the celebrity-related attraction. The publicity surrounding the event has added to the debate over whether the exhibition is being conducted primarily as a public festival attraction or as a privately organised commercial event.
The organisers’ response to questions about free entry has also become part of the criticism. Some visitors alleged that they were told to enter if they were willing to pay and leave otherwise.
The allegations reflect the frustration expressed by visitors, although the organisers’ full response was not available.
Questions raised over public access during Dasara
Mysuru Dasara is one of Karnataka’s major cultural festivals, with attractions spread across the city. The official Dasara programme lists numerous public events, and entry arrangements vary by attraction.
Against this backdrop, the cake show’s ₹60 charge has prompted visitors to seek clarity about the basis for the fee and the role of the district administration in approving the arrangements.
The controversy has also highlighted the importance of clearly displaying entry charges and explaining whether an attraction is free or ticketed before visitors join queues.
As complaints continue, the key questions are whether the fee was authorised, what the sponsorship agreement provides and whether the organisers or district administration will respond to public concerns.
No official clarification addressing these questions was available in the information reviewed. The issue remains centred on visitors’ objections to the fee and the demand for greater transparency in the organisation of the Dasara cake show.