Mysuru, Oct 19 (UNI) Fourteen elephants led by Abhimanyu’s team returned to their camps today after participating in the grand Mysuru Dasara celebrations and the spectacular Jamboo Savari, drawing people that lined the streets to witness the majestic animals one last time.
The elephants, along with their mahouts and attendants, were handed over to the forest department at Kodi Someshwara Temple following traditional prayers at the palace premises.
For the past 60 days, these elephants had been the beating heart of the Dasara festival, marching from the palace to Banni Mantapa in a carefully rehearsed two-stage procession. Their routine involved climbing wooden platforms, practicing with drums, and undergoing regular weight and health checks, all while the city watched, photographed, and shared every moment on social media.
DCF Prabhu Gowda said, “This year’s Dasara was grand. All 14 elephants have returned safely to their camps and are in good health. Their arrival in the procession was very special, and all elephants will reach their respective camps in the evening.”
Priest Prahlad Rao, who has been performing traditional rituals for the elephants for several years, added, “Abhimanyu’s team successfully conducted the Jamboo Savari this year. For the past two months, these elephants have given the public a glimpse of Dasara in Mysuru. People here are fortunate to witness them daily during this period.”
This year’s Jamboo Savari was livestreamed, attracting around 22 lakh online viewers, a dramatic jump from last year’s one lakh.
On the day of the procession, under Abhimanyu’s leadership, the elephants carried the idol of presiding deity Mahalakshmi Chamundeshwari through the streets, drawing millions of spectators.
The event was broadcast live on the official Dasara website and 22 government portals, including the Chief Minister’s official site, ensuring wide digital reach.
