02-07-2025
Forest department begins health assessment of elephants for Mysuru Dasara
Preparations for the grand Mysuru Dasara celebrations have commenced with the Forest Department initiating health checks on elephants that are expected to be shortlisted for this year's festivities. The world-famous Dasara procession, celebrated for its royal tradition and cultural grandeur, prominently features caparisoned elephants led by the howdah elephant carrying the Golden Ambari.
According to a press release from the Forest Department, a team headed by the Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF) is visiting various elephant camps to identify and appraise suitable jumbos. During these visits, health conditions of elephants are being assessed to ensure they are physically fit to participate in the festivities.
After the preliminary selection, veterinarians will conduct detailed health examinations of the shortlisted elephants. As part of the health assessment process this year, pregnancy tests for all female elephants are being conducted. The samples have been sent to laboratories for confirmation. Based on the lab reports, a final list of elephants suitable for the festivities will be prepared in consultation with higher authorities, and the report will be sent to the government for approval, the press release stated.
Upon receiving the government's approval, the Forest Minister will announce the official list of elephants chosen to participate in this year's Mysuru Dasara. The list is expected to be released after July 20. Following this, arrangements for their transportation to Mysuru will begin.
Traditionally, once the elephants are finalised, they are brought to Mysuru from Veeranahosahalli in Nagarahole forests as part of the Gajapayana ritual on a designated date, marking the ceremonial start of their journey. The elephants usually arrive in two batches.
Upon their arrival, the Forest Department and the Mysuru Palace Board make comprehensive arrangements for their accommodation at the Mysuru Palace premises, where temporary sheds, bathing facilities, veterinary care, and tight security are provided. The elephants undergo training under their mahouts and kavadi assistants, to acclimatise them to the festive atmosphere and crowds they will encounter during the grand procession.
In 2024, the Forest Department selected 18 elephants, out of which 14 participated in the Dasara festivities. The elephant team last year comprised: Abhimanyu, 58 years – howdah elephant; Dhananjaya, 33; Mahendra, 41; Bheema, 24; Gopi, 42; Prashantha, 51; Sugreeva, 42; Kanjan, 25; Rohit, 22; Ekalavya, 39 – participating for the first time, along with Varalakshmi (68); Lakshmi (23); Doddaharave Lakshmi (53) and Hiranya (47).
Of these, five elephants were from the Dubare camp, four from Mattigodu, three from Ramapura, and one each from Bheemakatte and Doddaharave camps. The first batch to arrive last year included nine elephants led by Abhimanyu, while the second batch comprised Prashantha, Mahendra, Sugreeva, Lakshmi, and Hiranya.
With the selection process now underway, all eyes will be on the majestic elephants which will make Mysuru their home for nearly one and half months, preparing for the grand festivities.
