Mysuru Dasara Elephant Mahendra Begins Weight Bearing Training

Preparations for the grand Mysuru Dasara procession have entered another important stage with the elephant squad beginning weight bearing training. Mahendra was the first elephant from the group to undergo the exercise, carrying a total load of 700 kilograms.

The training was conducted under the supervision of Deputy Conservator of Forests Prabhugowda. The elephant squad travelled from the Mysuru Palace premises towards the torchlight parade ground at Bannimantap as part of the rehearsal.

Mahendra carried 350 kilograms of sandbags during the first day of training. Another 350 kilograms came from the namda, saddle materials, chapu and iron cradle used as part of the load. Despite the considerable weight, Mahendra completed the route with a steady and composed gait.

Elephants Lakshmi and Kaveri accompanied Mahendra during the rehearsal. Their presence provided support as the team began the latest stage of preparation for the upcoming Dasara celebrations.

The weight bearing exercise is particularly important because the forest department has not yet finalised the elephant that will carry the golden howdah during the Jamboo Savari. Mahendra is among four elephants currently being considered for the responsibility.

The other elephants in contention are Prashantha, Ekalavya and Dhananjaya. Officials have said that all four elephants will undergo training in stages before the final decision is taken.

The selection will not be based only on the ability to carry weight. The elephants will be observed throughout their training, with their health, walking style, behaviour and overall response to the demanding Dasara preparations taken into consideration.

Prabhugowda said Mahendra was selected for the first stage of the weight training and that the final elephant for the golden howdah would be chosen only after the complete training process.

According to the forest department, the elephants that arrived with the first batch are healthy and are receiving nutritious food as part of their preparation. Maintaining their physical condition is an important part of the training because the Dasara procession involves a long route, large crowds and a highly organised ceremonial environment.

The remaining elephants will also gradually be introduced to the weight bearing exercise. Officials are expected to monitor their performance closely before moving them to heavier loads.

The department is also working on the arrival of the second batch of elephants. A date for bringing the second group, along with veteran elephant Abhimanyu, to the palace will be finalised soon.

Abhimanyu has been an important part of Mysuru Dasara for many years and has previously carried the golden howdah during the Jamboo Savari. His future ceremonial role has drawn considerable attention as preparations for this years celebration continue.

The elephant squad will have to undergo several stages of preparation before the main procession. Apart from carrying weight, the animals need to become comfortable with the route, crowds, sounds and other conditions associated with the historic celebration.

For the forest department, the priority remains the health and safety of the elephants throughout the training period. The gradual approach allows officials to assess how each elephant responds before increasing the workload.

Mahendra completing the first weight bearing rehearsal marks the beginning of this crucial phase. The performances of Mahendra, Prashantha, Ekalavya and Dhananjaya will be closely watched in the coming days as the department moves towards selecting the elephant that will receive the golden howdah responsibility.

With the Jamboo Savari approaching, the Dasara elephant squad is steadily being prepared for one of the most important events in the Mysuru celebrations. Officials have indicated that the entire team will be made ready through systematic training before the procession.