The unseen hands behind Mysuru Dasara’s dazzling lights

The dazzling illumination that transforms Mysuru during Dasara is backed by the efforts of 642 personnel of the Chamundeshwari Electricity Supply Corporation (CESC), who work behind the scenes to maintain and supervise the elaborate lighting arrangements.

While the colourful lights adorning the Mysuru palace, major roads and traffic circles draw lakhs of visitors, a team of engineers, technical staff and field personnel works to ensure the smooth and safe functioning of the impressive illumination system.

CESC has deployed personnel from different divisions and technical cadres to manage the lighting arrangements during Dasara-2026, with a focus on maintenance, supervision and prompt response to technical issues.

642 personnel deployed

Of the 642 personnel assigned to illumination-related work, 323 are from the N.R. Mohalla division, 243 from the V.V. Mohalla division and 76 have been brought in on deputation.

The technical team includes 16 Assistant Executive Engineers (AEE), 50 Assistant Engineers (AE) and 56 Junior Engineers (JE). Meter readers, operators, overseers, mechanics, assistant storekeepers, line mechanics and power personnel are also involved in the operations, according to CESC.

Their responsibilities include monitoring the lighting infrastructure, conducting technical inspections, addressing faults and ensuring that the illumination arrangements function smoothly and safely throughout the festivities.

Energy Minister K.J. George, CESC chairman and MLA Ramesh Bandisiddegowda, and managing director M.S. Archana reviewed the arrangements to ensure that this year’s illumination was executed efficiently and on a grander scale than last year. Ms. Archana also inspected the arrangements ahead of the inauguration.

CESC technical director L. Lokesh, Mysuru Circle superintending engineer Sunil Kumar, and executive engineers Madesh and Sandeep also engaged in overseeing the maintenance and supervision of the arrangements, a press release said.

Ensuring the safe and uninterrupted functioning of the electrical system during Dasara is a major responsibility. Maintaining the illumination infrastructure, conducting technical checks and responding swiftly to faults require technical expertise, alertness, adherence to safety measures and coordination among teams, it said.

“The Dasasa illumination enhances the beauty of the city and offers a unique experience to visitors. The contribution of all CESC officers and personnel in making this spectacle possible is memorable. The service of the unseen hands behind the lights is an integral part of the Dasara celebrations,” said Ms. Archana.