Mysuru Dasara Airshow: Surya Kiran's Dazzling Display Cut Short by Rain

The Indian Air Force's Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team enthralled a jam-packed crowd at Bannimantap ground in Mysuru on Sunday morning, October 18, 2026, but a sudden spell of rain and inclement weather cut the much-awaited Dasara Airshow short. The pilots were able to perform only a handful of manoeuvres before the show had to be stopped.

A Brief but Spectacular Display

The team, flying nine Hawk Mk 132 aircraft, managed to perform only three horizontal manoeuvres, including the arrow formation, in the sky over Mysuru. The display was complemented by trails of saffron, white and green smoke, painting the national colours across the sky. The crowd, which had gathered in large numbers, cheered as the aircraft swept over the Torchlight Parade Grounds. The show is meant to showcase the synergy between man and machine, with each manoeuvre reflecting the dedication, skill and teamwork that define the Indian Air Force.

Disappointment for Spectators

The abrupt end was a disappointment for thousands of people who had bought tickets and waited for hours since the morning. After the short performance, the aircraft returned to the Yelahanka air base near Bengaluru because of the rain and cloud cover. Airshows depend heavily on visibility and weather conditions, since aerobatic manoeuvres such as loops, rolls and close formation flying require clear skies and safe cloud bases. Pilots and controllers therefore err on the side of caution when conditions deteriorate.

Rescheduled for Monday

The Air Force has said that the show will be held again on Monday, October 19, when the Surya Kiran team plans to showcase a series of intricate aerobatic manoeuvres, provided the weather is favourable. The display has been planned for October 18 and 19, with the first day open to spectators and the main public display on the second day. The shows are scheduled to begin at 10 am on both days, and the Mysuru City Police Commissioner has declared a "Red Zone" within a 10-nautical-mile radius of the ground to ensure safety during the event.

The Team Behind the Show

The display features 13 pilots, led by Group Captain Ajay Dasharathi and Wing Commander T Singh, with support from other officers. Before the show, the team conducted mapping and rehearsal flights over the city and installed communication systems to enable secure radio contact between aircraft, ground teams and control stations. The Surya Kiran team is one of the most recognised aerobatic teams in Asia, known for gravity-defying stunts such as the DNA manoeuvre, barrel rolls, loops and inverted flying.

Uncertainty Before the Event

The airshow had been uncertain a few weeks ago. The state government had written to the Defence Ministry seeking an airshow for this year's Dasara, but reports said that the Sarang Helicopter Display Team, which performed last year, was unlikely to take part because of a packed schedule, and the Surya Kiran team's participation was yet to be confirmed. The proposal came at short notice, leaving little time for arrangements involving personnel, helicopters and logistics. In the end, the Surya Kiran team agreed to perform, which was welcomed by organisers.

A Highlight of Dasara

Mysuru Dasara, known as Nada Habba, is Karnataka's state festival and attracts visitors from across the country and abroad. The airshow has become a popular attraction in recent years, adding to the traditional events such as the royal procession and cultural programmes. Organisers will hope that the weather improves on Monday so that the show can be completed and the thousands of visitors who missed the full performance on Sunday get another chance.

This report is based on published news coverage and statements by the organisers and the Air Force. The schedule is subject to weather conditions.