Mangalore : As the days are nearing, the Shri Gokarnanatha Temple of Kudroli has begun its preparation for Mangalore Dasara, which will be celebrated at the temple from September 28 to Oct 6.

Speaking at the press meet held at temple, H. S. Sairam, the president of the temple management committee, said that the grand finale of the festival will be held on Oct 6.

He said that the committee will commence the festival with the traditional installation of idols of the Navadurgas on September 28. This will be the 22nd Mangalore Dassara, he said.

Harikrishna Bantwal, the development trustee of the temple, said that the Mangalore Dasara festival will be held under the leadership of former KPCC president B. Janardhana Poojary.

He also said that Vayalar Ravi, the union civil aviation minister, will inaugurate the festivities on Oct 2. The highlights of the festival will be performances by internationally acclaimed artistes, over 50 tableaux, and much more.