Abhimanyu To Return For 2026 Mysuru Dasara As Nishane Elephant

There is good news for thousands of Abhimanyu fans ahead of the 2026 Mysuru Dasara. The veteran elephant, who has been closely associated with the festival for more than two decades, will once again be part of the celebrations.

Abhimanyu is set to participate in the Dasara procession in the role of Nishane elephant, according to the announcement from the state government. The decision comes after strong public demand to see the celebrated elephant continue his association with Mysuru Dasara even after being relieved of the responsibility of carrying the golden howdah.

The 60 year old elephant was given a respectful farewell during the Gajapayana ceremony on August 26. Since Abhimanyu had completed the age limit for carrying the golden howdah, his retirement from that responsibility had been expected. However, his absence from the initial list of Dasara elephants disappointed many of his admirers.

The public response eventually led to a change in the plan. Forest Minister Ramalinga Reddy announced that Abhimanyu would be given a special opportunity to participate in the Jamboo Savari, recognising his long service and contribution to the historic festival.

Abhimanyu has been one of the most familiar faces of Mysuru Dasara. He participated in the festival for more than 25 years and carried the golden howdah on six consecutive occasions. His calm presence, training and experience made him a favourite among visitors who gather in large numbers to watch the grand procession.

His return in a different role is therefore expected to carry considerable emotional value for Dasara followers. Rather than disappearing from the festival after retirement from the howdah duty, Abhimanyu will remain part of the event and receive a ceremonial role that reflects his long association with the celebration.

Meanwhile, preparations for the Dasara elephant contingent are continuing at the Mysuru Palace. The elephants are undergoing regular training to prepare for the various rituals and the main procession scheduled for October.

Srikanta has been selected as the Pattada elephant for the palace rituals. This will be the second consecutive time that Srikanta has received the honour. The elephant will take part in important ceremonies conducted inside the palace during the nine days of Navaratri.

Ekalavya has also been selected for an important ceremonial role connected with the palace traditions. Both elephants are expected to play a significant part in events including the private Durbar, Ayudha Puja and other traditional rituals held during Navaratri.

The biggest question that remains unanswered is the identity of the elephant that will carry the 750 kilogram golden howdah during the main Jamboo Savari.

The Forest Department has not yet officially announced the final choice. Dhanzaya, Mahendra and Prashantha are currently among the elephants being closely observed during training. Their walking style, overall bearing, response to the sound of fireworks and general health are being assessed before the final decision.

Officials are expected to select the howdah elephant only after evaluating the animals during the training period. The final announcement could come shortly before the Jamboo Savari, once the department is satisfied with the elephant’s fitness and readiness.

For now, the return of Abhimanyu is likely to be one of the emotional highlights of this year’s Mysuru Dasara. Although he will no longer carry the golden howdah, his presence will allow admirers to see the veteran elephant once again as part of one of Karnataka’s most celebrated cultural events.