Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru has rolled out an extensive programme of performances, installations and interactive sessions to mark Naadahabba Dasara, Karnataka’s state festival, across its terminals from October 12 to 17. The initiative coordinated by Bangalore International Airport Ltd seeks to integrate cultural engagement into the travel experience for passengers and visitors alike. According to airport officials each element draws directly from authentic Karnataka art forms to allow travellers to connect with the stories and skills involved.
The centrepiece is a Dasara Gombe installation at the T2 arrival forecourt curated by Padma Shri awardee Anupama Hoskere that revives the traditional festive doll display known as Gombe Habba. This exhibit brings to life the narratives and cultural significance of the dolls for international and domestic passengers. On October 16 ninth-generation puppeteer Gunduraju will present Togalu Gombeyatta shadow puppetry performances from 6pm to 8pm in the same location a BLR Airport statement said.
Traditional craft workshops have been set up in both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 where passengers can participate in painting Channapatna lacquered wooden toys or terracotta figurines. A dedicated games zone curated by Kavade offers hands-on play with Karnataka board games such as Huli Kuri, Chowkabara and others. These activities run daily from 10am onward during the celebration period according to industry reporting.
Live performances featuring Karnataka’s folk and classical arts including Dollu Kunita drum dances, Bharatanatyam, Yakshagana and Carnatic music are scheduled throughout the week at various points in the airport. The Hindu Bureau reported that such displays transform the airport into a venue for living heritage rather than mere decoration. Renowned music director Hamsalekha inaugurated the festivities and commended the effort to present Karnataka’s traditions to a global audience.
A culinary component developed with chef Ranveer Brar invites Kannadigas to submit cherished Dasara recipes with the winning entry to be prepared by 080 Lounge chefs and offered to travellers. This ties into the festival’s emphasis on food traditions alongside visual and performing arts. Shalini Rao chief marketing officer of Bangalore International Airport Ltd stated “At BLR Airport we believe every traveller should experience the warmth culture and spirit of Karnataka.”
Karnataka observes Dasara as Naadahabba with the grandest celebrations centred in Mysuru that include a majestic procession known as Jambu Savari. The airport display incorporates models of this procession and traditional Mysuru Peta turbans to evoke the festive atmosphere. Public engagement has been strong with passengers interacting with the Pattada Gombe dolls and other exhibits.
