Karnataka hosts vibrant festivals celebrating its heritage, agriculture, and arts.
* **Mysuru Dasara:** The state festival (*Nadahabba*). A 10-day grand celebration during Navaratri, culminating in a massive elephant procession (Jumboo Savari) in Mysuru. * **Hampi Utsav:** A cultural extravaganza of music, dance, and drama held amidst the ancient ruins of Hampi. * **Bengaluru Karaga:** One of the city's oldest and most important urban festivals, deeply rooted in the local Thigala community. * **Kadalekai Parishe:** The traditional groundnut fair held annually in Basavanagudi, Bengaluru, marking the first harvest. * **Ugadi:** The Kannada New Year, celebrated with a mix of sweet and bitter flavors (bevu-bella) symbolizing the varied experiences of life.