Mysore/Mysuru, Sept. 15 -- Former Mayor Sandesh Swamy has urged that Yuva Dasara, an integral part of the annual Dasara celebrations, should serve as a platform to showcase local heritage, tradition and nativity, rather than glorifying foreign culture.

"Every year, Rs. 4 to Rs. 5 crore is spent on organising Yuva Dasara. Huge sums - running into lakhs - are paid to artistes invited from other States to perform. However, instead of promoting our rich legacy, the event is increasingly highlighting foreign cultural trends, which is a disrespect to our heritage. The organisers must seriously reflect on this and take corrective measures," Sandesh Swamy said.

He criticised the current line-up of performances, saying they have become monotonou...