Folk art of Mysore consists of rich traditional and conventional art forms. Various branches of folk art like singing, drama, dance and puppet shows are popular in the rural parts of Indian state of Karnataka. On diverse festivals, specially during Dasara these artistes visit city of Mysore and perform. In the ancient days, they performed before the King, but in the present times they perform on the streets of Mysore or in specially designated areas during Dasara. Presentation of folk art by popular folk groups of the state has become an established and regular part of the Dasara celebrations.

These folk artistes form part of the famous Dasara procession as well. Bessu Kamsale, Somanakunitha and Yaskshagana the popular folk art of Karnataka form an integral part of the Dasara celebrations and the procession. Beesu Kamasale has been recognized as a leading folk art of India and many leading groups have taken part in national and international cultural festivals. Yakashgana is a nightlong stage play, where the actors enact episodes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata throughout the night.

This folk art is especially popularly in Dakshina Kannada and Uttara Kannada districts of Karnataka are performed in Mysore. Folk art or indigenous art is an integral part of rural life and is handed down from generation to generation by word of mouth. Recognizing its importance, University of Mysore has set up a museum of Folk arts to collect artefacts related to the different folk arts in Karnataka. The University has also introduced a course in Folk arts at the level of Masters Degree.

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