Thousands of people across Mysuru welcomed 2026 with music, fireworks and organised festivities, congregating at the city palace and Chamundi Hill to mark the New Year. Residents, visitors and guests at hotels and clubs celebrated with cake cutting, cultural programmes and illuminated displays as the clock struck midnight.
Mysuru New Year celebrations at Chamundi Hill
The city centre became a hub of activity after 11pm as crowds moved towards the palace and surrounding areas. Many motorists parked near the palace to take photographs beneath the lights, while fireworks and crackers drew cheers. The palace precinct hosted a large public gathering where thousands watched a sky display of rockets and lights. A police band performed and helped maintain an upbeat atmosphere.
Local hotels and clubs reported full houses with special music programmes and fashion events running through the night. Some households chose to celebrate privately, while others joined public events in family groups.
Authorities prepared for further large crowds on 1 January and across the weekend. District Commissioner G. Laxmikant Reddy convened a meeting of senior officials and instructed departments to put comprehensive arrangements in place for the influx of devotees expected at Chamundi Hill. He highlighted the Lalita Sahasranama ritual scheduled for 2 January and the anticipated weekend peak on 3 and 4 January.
Officials were ordered to establish orderly queue systems to prevent overcrowding at temple entrances and to ensure smooth pedestrian movement. Measures include designated parking for VIPs near the Mahishasura statue with battery-operated shuttles to ferry passengers to the temple top when crowds are heavy. Traffic management plans were prioritised to prevent congestion on access roads and to maintain clear routes for emergency vehicles.
Public services received specific instructions. The district administration sought extra bus trips from the KSRTC city division to improve public transport capacity. Water distribution points will be increased at several locations, and additional sanitation staff will be deployed to maintain cleanliness. The health department was asked to station two ambulances near the hill during peak periods and to monitor the quality of food donated by devotees and served at offering halls.
Security officers said more than 1,500 personnel were assigned to the New Year duty across the city. Police patrols remained visible throughout the night with particular attention to protecting women and children in crowded areas, and to deterring drink-driving. Officials urged celebrants to use public transport where possible and to follow directions from marshals and police for their safety.
Residents and visitors were encouraged to cooperate with authorities and to follow signage and queuing instructions at Chamundi Hill. With the combination of cultural programmes, safety measures and enhanced public services, Mysuru authorities aim to ensure that the remaining New Year events proceed smoothly and safely for all attendees.
Key Takeaways:
- Thousands gathered across Mysuru, with the palace and Chamundi Hill lit up for New Year festivities.
- Mysuru New Year celebrations saw tight security with over 1,500 police on duty and public safety measures in place.
- District officials ordered organised queues, extra buses and sanitation, and planned ambulance coverage for weekend events.
