Mysuru’s Drone Show Shatters Record with 2,983 Drones

Mysuru has entered the prestigious Guinness World Records with a spectacular drone show featuring 2,983 drones. This event, held at the Torchlight Parade Grounds in Bannimantap on September 28, 2023, showcased a stunning aerial display that depicted a tiger, further enhancing the excitement of this year’s Dasara celebrations.

The show was organized by the Chamundeshwari Electricity Supply Corporation (CESC). According to CESC Managing Director Munigopal Raju, the decision to increase the number of drones from 1,500 in the previous year to nearly 3,000 was intended to create an unforgettable experience for attendees. The record-setting attempt adhered to rigorous standards, including certification from a London-based team and verification by aeronautical engineers, auditors, and legal professionals.

“The earlier record involved 1,985 drones forming a tiger. We aimed to surpass that by creating our national animal with 3,000 drones, something that had never been done before,” Mr. Raju explained. The initial trial demonstration took place on September 28, followed by another on September 29, in anticipation of the main shows scheduled for October 1 and 2.

The audience was captivated as the drones illuminated the night sky with intricate images. These included the solar system, a world map, an Indian soldier, and cultural symbols such as a peacock, an eagle, and Lord Krishna dancing on a serpent. Other notable displays featured ‘Mother Cauvery’, the Ambari elephant, Goddess Chamundeshwari, and a map of Karnataka that highlighted Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, and the state’s five guarantee schemes.

Mr. Raju emphasized the precision required in selecting the visuals since each drone had a limited power backup, allowing for only 10 to 12 image transitions. He credited the success of the event to the collaboration of nearly 100 professionals from a private drone company and around 200 CESC staff members.

As a prelude to the drone show, playback singer Kunal Ganjawala and his troupe entertained the crowd with an engaging musical performance, setting an energetic tone for the evening. This record-setting event not only showcased technological prowess but also highlighted Mysuru’s vibrant cultural heritage during one of its most celebrated festivals.