Abhinava Gavisiddeshwara formally invited to inaugurate Mysuru Dasara

On Sunday, Deputy Commissioner G. Lakshmikanth Reddy, who also serves as the Special Officer for the Mysuru Dasara festival, journeyed to Gavimath in Koppal alongside members of the Dasara Reception Committee. The objective of the visit was to formally extend an invitation to Abhinava Gavisiddeshwara to inaugurate the 2026 Mysuru Dasara festivities on October 11.

The delegation comprising Reddy and officials from the Mysuru Dasara Reception Committee was accompanied by Koppal Deputy Commissioner Suresh Itnal and Koppal Zilla Panchayat Chief Executive Officer Varnit Negi. Upon their arrival at Gavimath around 2 p.m., Reddy delivered the formal invitation on behalf of the committee, requesting the seer to attend the event and inaugurate the festivities.

The Mysuru officials honored the seer by presenting him with flowers and fruits. During the visit, the seer reciprocated by inviting the officials to share in the prasada at the Gavimath. Subsequently, Reddy and Mysuru Zilla Panchayat CEO Yukesh Kumar ascended the hill at Gavimath, where they paid their respects at the Karthru Gadde, a sacred site associated with the founder of the mutt.

The delegation expressed admiration for the pristine, verdant surroundings and the serene atmosphere of Gavimath. They also viewed photographs showcasing the immense participation and religious significance of the Gavisiddheshwara Jatra, often referred to as the Kumbh Mela of South India due to its colossal gathering of devout followers. Itnal explained to his Mysuru counterpart the unique aspects of the Gavimath Jatra, during which hundreds of thousands of devotees assemble, bringing agricultural produce and food grains.