KEA chairman thanks Chief Minister Siddaramaiah for ?20 crore grant, unveils Dasara exhibition plans

NT Correspondent

Mysuru: Karnataka Exhibition Authority (KEA) chairman Ayub Khan on Saturday expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah for releasing ?20 crore to enhance features and facilities for visitors at the Mysuru Dasara Exhibition Grounds. Speaking to reporters at a press conference held at his office, Khan also thanked the Chief Minister for appointing him as KEA chairman and supporting the promotional activities he has initiated at the exhibition grounds. Of the ?20 crore sanctioned by the state government, KEA has allocated ?10 crore for the construction of a wooden replica inspired by Belur-Halebidu temple architecture and the installation of musical fountains.

The remaining funds will be used to complete ongoing projects, improve underground drainage (UGD), enhance parking facilities, and open additional stalls, increasing the existing count of 154. “All ongoing projects will be completed before the start of this year’s Dasara celebrations,” he assured. Following the Chief Minister’s instructions, KEA also plans to organise exhibitions in Shivamogga, Ballari, Belagavi, and Hubballi. Khan said discussions will be held with the respective district deputy commissioners, and preparations will be made to host these events in the coming months.

Additionally, KEA intends to utilise the Dasara Exhibition Grounds year-round by organising events throughout the year to make the venue more profitable and attract visitors beyond the festival period. When asked about the recent wedding of Kannada actor Dolly Dhananjaya, Khan confirmed that KEA had collected a rental fee of ?5.5 lakh for hosting the ceremony at its premises last week.