Mysuru : Chief Minister Siddaramaiah signalled the start of Vijayadashami procession on Friday by offering puja to Nandi Dhwaja in front of North Gate of Mysuru Palace.

Though the Dasara festivities have been scaled down in view of the drought, the grandeur of the festival was not affected, claimed Mr. Siddaramaiah and added that a lot of tourists including foreigners had visited Mysuru during the festival

The Dasara procession, also known as Jamboo Savari, will start with the caparisoned Nishane elephant, Balarama, followed by 65 cultural troupes and tableaux.

The Jamboo Savari concludes with lead elephant Arjuna, carrying the 750 kg golden Howdah.

Though there has been a delay in the release of funds from the Centre, drought relief works had begun in different parts of the State.