Every year on November 1, Bengaluru turns red and yellow. Flags on autos, Kannada songs everywhere, stages in every area. This is Kannada Rajyotsava – Karnataka’s birthday. If you are new to the city and wondering what is happening, this guide is for you. What it means, why we celebrate it, and the best places to see it – all by metro.
What is Kannada Rajyotsava? Why November 1?
Simple answer: Karnataka was born on November 1, 1956. Before that, Kannada-speaking people were split across different regions – old Mysore State, parts of Bombay and Madras, and Hyderabad state. On November 1, 1956, all these Kannada regions were joined into one state. This is why November 1 is also called Karnataka Formation Day.
One more thing many people don’t know: the state was first called Mysore State. It got the name Karnataka on November 1, 1973 – the same date again, 17 years later.
Rajyotsava means “state festival”. It is a public holiday in Karnataka. On this day, the government gives the Rajyotsava Awards to people who have done great work for Kannada language, arts, music, science and society. And everywhere you will hear the state anthem – “Jaya Bharata Jananiya Tanujate”, written by the great poet Kuvempu.
Why red and yellow? The Karnataka flag
The Kannada flag has two colours – yellow on top, red below. Yellow stands for arishina (turmeric) and red for kumkuma – both are symbols of good luck and respect in Kannada homes. That is why the whole city – autos, shops, streets – wears these two colours on Rajyotsava day.
Where to celebrate Kannada Rajyotsava in Bengaluru – by metro
November 1 means heavy traffic in the city. Take the metro – every place below is close to a station, and each one has a button to plan your trip directly.
Kanteerava Stadium and Cubbon Park – the main event
The government’s main function happens at Sree Kanteerava Stadium – flag hoisting, folk dances and the Rajyotsava Award ceremony. It is a 10-minute walk from Cubbon Park metro station (Purple Line). Bonus: the station opens directly into Cubbon Park, where you can often catch morning cultural walks and Kannada poetry meets before the main event. Go early and enjoy the full morning.
Vidhana Soudha lighting – the famous photo spot
On Rajyotsava evening, Vidhana Soudha glows in red and yellow lights. The Vidhana Soudha lighting is one of the most loved sights of the day – families come just for photos. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Station (Vidhana Soudha) on the Purple Line drops you right next to it.
Ravindra Kalakshetra and Town Hall – theatre and music
Ravindra Kalakshetra on J.C. Road is the home of Kannada theatre and music. During Rajyotsava season it hosts plays, music programmes and Sugama Sangeetha evenings. Seats fill up fast – go early. Nearby, Town Hall also lights up in state colours and hosts Kannada literary events. Both are a 10-12 minute walk from Krishna Rajendra Market station (Green Line). One station, two famous venues.
Rangoli Metro Art Centre – right at MG Road station
This one is the easiest of all. The Rangoli Metro Art Centre is right next to the MG Road station exit, under the metro tracks. It runs art shows, Kannada book stalls and street performances, with special events in the festive season. You don’t even have to leave the metro! After that, Church Street is right there for dinner. Station: MG Road, Purple Line.
Malleshwaram 8th Cross – Rajyotsava on the street
Old Bengaluru celebrates on the street. Malleshwaram’s 8th Cross is full of red and yellow, with local groups putting up street stages for folk dances like Dollu Kunitha and light music. From Mantri Square Sampige Road station (Green Line), it is a 7-10 minute walk up Sampige Road.
Jayanagar 4th Block – books, flags and filter coffee
South Bengaluru’s favourite: the 4th Block complex area fully decorated, Kannada book stalls, flower and flag sellers, and small community stages with live singing. Jayanagar station (Green Line) is a flat 5-minute walk from the market.
Basavanagudi and VV Puram – festival food
Basavanagudi has classic Rajyotsava energy – area flag hoisting, music and decorations everywhere. And for food, you are in the best part of town: a food walk on VV Puram Food Street, or the famous masala dose and filter coffee at Vidyarthi Bhavan. Get down at National College or Lalbagh station (Green Line).
Your own area
Honestly, the sweetest Rajyotsava is in your own street – almost every area puts up a stage. Step out, and wish anyone “Kannada Rajyotsavada shubhashayagalu” (Happy Rajyotsava) – you will get a big smile back. Use our nearest station finder if you go roaming.
Metro timings on November 1, 2026 – note this
November 1, 2026 is a Sunday. So the metro starts late – first trains at 7:00 AM on all lines, not the usual 5 AM. Last trains leave the end stations between about 10:45 PM and 11:05 PM as normal. Full details in our metro timings guide. Every station page on our site also shows live next-train times.
What is Kannada Rajyotsava?
Karnataka’s formation day. On November 1, 1956, all Kannada-speaking regions were united into one state. Rajyotsava means ‘state festival’. It is a public holiday in Karnataka with flag hoisting, cultural events and the Rajyotsava Awards.
Is November 1 a holiday in Karnataka?
Yes. Kannada Rajyotsava is a public holiday across Karnataka – schools, colleges, banks and most offices stay closed.
Why is Kannada Rajyotsava celebrated on November 1?
Because Karnataka was formed on November 1, 1956. The state was first called Mysore State, and was renamed Karnataka on November 1, 1973 – the same date.
Where is the main Rajyotsava celebration in Bengaluru?
The government’s main function, with the Rajyotsava Awards, is at Sree Kanteerava Stadium – a 10-minute walk from Cubbon Park metro station. Vidhana Soudha’s lighting in the evening is the other big attraction.
Is the metro running on Kannada Rajyotsava 2026?
Yes. November 1, 2026 is a Sunday, so trains start at 7:00 AM and last trains leave end stations between about 10:45 PM and 11:05 PM.
Kannada Rajyotsavada shubhashayagalu! Also see our Deepavali shopping guide – the festival season continues next week.
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