Karnataka's cultural capital Mysuru on Thursday invoked gods to worship armoury, horses and the golden royal throne in the Amba Vilas Palace, marking the ninth day of its world famous Dussehra festival.
of Mysuru royal family, Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar, offered prayers to the royal armoury -- swords, guns and daggers -- of the Wadiyar dynasty at the Amba Vilas Palace, commonly known as Mysuru Palace.
The royal horses and elephants were also worshipped by the royal family as part of the "Ayudha Pooja" (worship of weapons) performed on Thursday as part of the 10-day Mysuru Dussehra, which began on October 10.
Besides the royal family, people from various professions across the city, including farmers, marked the day by worshipping their instruments and machines for making their lives easier.
Hundreds flocked to get a glimpse of the regal treasures, chariots, silver palanquins and many artefacts that were displayed in the illuminated royal durbar hall during the ceremony.
The Wadiyar dynasty had ruled the then Kingdom of Mysore for over four centuries from the year 1399.
One of the rulers from the dynasty, Raja Wadiyar is credited with holding the 'Dasara' celebrations for the first time in 1610. Ever since, the royal family has played a significant part in the festivities that have gained popularity across the world.
Friday will mark the finale of the festival with a victory parade.
Lakhs of people gather each year to witness the procession of caparisoned elephants, horse-drawn carriages and tableaux from the royal palace through the city, which will be flagged off by Chief Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy.
--IANS
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