Mysore, August 15, 2013: The preparations for Naada Habba Dasara to be held from October 5 to 14 commenced in earnest.

The constitution of 20 sub-committees by Deputy Commissioner C. Shikha, who is also the Dasara special officer; decision to waiver of entry tax on tourist vehicles entering the State during the festival; and inviting artists for the palace concerts are some of the measures initiated.

Yuva Dasara, which was introduced 10 years back but discontinued last year in view of the drought and complaints that it did not reflect “traditional culture”, has made a comeback this year.

However, a release said it would be held in a more “meaningful manner”.

The officers in charge of various sub-committees have been directed to cut down on the expenditure and also ensure that the shortcomings noticed in 2012 were rectified.

The various sub-committees have been instructed to prepare a draft list of the programmes that can be organised by them before finalising it.

Ms. Shikha said the process to contacting artistes of national and international repute for music concerts have commenced, while various cultural zones in the country too are being contacted for the same and to bring artistes from different States.

Dasara Gold Card will be on sale this year as well and facilities will be in place for international tourists to view the programmes, she said.

On the Dasara exhibition which tends to have empty stalls in the initial few days, the Deputy Commissioner said efforts would be made to ensure that a maximum number of stalls are ready with their wares for display on the inaugural day. Government departments participating in the exhibition have been directed to ensure that their stalls are ready on time for the inauguration of the Dasara exhibition.

A mega stall showcasing handicrafts will be a special attraction in this year’s expo and artisans from all over the country will showcase handicraft items related to their respective States and put them for display and sale.

Food Street (Ahara Marga) is in the pipeline at Dasara Expo this year and five sub-committees have been constituted to ensure the smooth conduct of the exhibition, according to Ms. Shikha.

Information kiosks will be established for the benefit of tourists, while the Dasara website will be upgraded with a slew of new features, she added.

Source: The Hindu, DT. August 15, 2013.