Vijsysdashami or Dasara celebrates nothing less than the victory of good over evil. Mysore/Mysuru, India is named after that great battle.

The buffalo demon, Mahimadura tricked Shiva into giving him Godlike powers that he used to wreak havoc on humanity. The goddess Puja descended to earth and, after a great battle, slew the demon. Mysore is based on the name of the demon’s homes that was the site of the epic battle.

The Dasara parade commemorates the battle and was supposed to coincide with the coronation of the local prince. Unfortunately, due to a death in the family, the coronation was cancelled but the celebrations continued.

Ew, scary!

Waiting (for hours) for the parade to start

A loud start to the parade

We stand on guard…..

Scary face to chase the demon away.

Hanuman, the monkey god, creating a spectacle.

Happy drummer.

Shiva, on stilts.

Spinning fun.

Checking out the crowd.

The idol being carried by elephant in a gold container.

More colour

Is anyone else thinking of ABBA right now?

Elephants

A few death defying stunts were performed.

Dasara featured a huge variety of performers including members of the demon’s family.

Getting ready to jump….

Female drummer. Most musicians in the parade were male but there were a few exceptions. This band had a huge number of female drummers.

Float of Mother Earth (?)

Elephants making nice with the crowd.

Elephants putting on a show.

Scaring away the demon?

Military presence

Dancers having a good time.