Mysuru Dasara to Miss Abhimanyu as Forest Department Searches for New Howdah Bearer

Mysuru Dasara will have a different look this year as veteran elephant Abhimanyu steps away from the responsibility of carrying the golden howdah. The Forest Department is now preparing to select a new elephant for one of the festival’s most watched traditions.

Abhimanyu had carried the howdah since 2020 and became closely associated with the grand Dasara procession. After turning 60, however, he has not been considered for the demanding role this year.

Four elephants in the race

The Forest Department has announced a list of 12 elephants for this year’s Mysuru Dasara. Abhimanyu’s name has been left out of the list.

Among the elephants being considered for the main howdah duty are Dhananjaya, Mahendra, Sugriva and Prashantha. One of these four elephants is expected to carry the golden howdah bearing the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari.

The final choice will depend on the elephants’ fitness, training and suitability for the responsibility.

Dasara preparations begin with Gajapayana

The first group of Dasara elephants is scheduled to arrive as part of Gajapayana on August 26. Dhananjaya, Mahendra, Ekalavya, Prashantha, Gopi, Srirama, Sugriva, Lakshmi and Kaveri are among the elephants expected to join the initial team.

The Forest Department has also kept Bhima and Harsha in reserve because of the need to have additional strong elephants available during the festival.

A familiar captain steps aside

Abhimanyu has been one of the most recognisable elephants associated with Mysuru Dasara. His connection with the festival stretches back about 25 years, making his absence from the howdah procession particularly noticeable this time.

While the veteran will no longer carry the golden howdah, attention has now shifted to the next elephant that will take on the prestigious role. The decision is expected to be closely watched by visitors and Dasara enthusiasts as preparations gather pace.