An extraordinary era in the history of Karnataka's legendary Mysore Dasara is coming to a close. Abhimanyu, the iconic 60-year-old elephant who carried the heavy 750 KG Golden Howdah during the main Jumbo Savari procession for six consecutive years, has been retired from official festival duties upon reaching the age threshold of 60. From 2020 to 2025, Abhimanyu served as the centerpiece of the annual procession, capturing the hearts of millions of devotees and visitors. While his age prevents him from carrying the sacred golden structure this year, his legacy as the pride of Mysuru Dasara remains unmatched.
Four Contenders Shortlisted for Golden Howdah as 12 Elephants Selected
Following a high-level review meeting chaired by Forest Minister Ramalinga Reddy, official authorities released the final list of 12 elephants selected for the upcoming Jumbo Savari. To step into the role previously held by Abhimanyu, four powerful elephants have been shortlisted to potentially carry the 750 KG Golden Howdah: Dhananjaya, Prashanth, Sugreeva, and Mahendra. Officials will evaluate their physical readiness before assigning the prestigious responsibility to one of them.
The traditional journey of the elephants to Mysuru, known as Gajapayana, is scheduled to commence on August 26 near the Veeranahosahalli Gate of the Nagarhole Tiger Reserve. The first contingent will bring elephants from three key forest camps
- Dubare Camp: Dhananjaya, Gopi, Shriram, Sugreeva, and Kaveri will begin their march to Mysuru.
- Balle Camp: Mahendra and Lakshmi have been designated to join the procession cohort.
- Mathigodu Camp: Ekalavya will join the first batch heading toward the royal city.
Real Hero of the Wild: Over 300 Elephants and 80 Tigers Rescued
Abhimanyu's fame extends far beyond the grand avenues of Mysuru. At the Mathigodu Camp, he served as the premier lead Kumki elephant, playing a central role in complex wildlife management and conflict-resolution missions across India. Kumki elephants are specially trained to track, contain, and calm wild or aggressive elephants during high-stakes rescue operations.
Throughout his active service, Abhimanyu participated in tracking and capturing more than 300 wild elephants in various conflict zones. Furthermore, he assisted forest department teams in capturing over 80 tigers, demonstrating remarkable composure and bravery in dangerous wilderness encounters. His operational record makes him one of the most successful rescue elephants in the country's conservation history.
Why 26-Year-Old Elephant Bhima Was Excluded from the Main Procession
In addition to Abhimanyu's retirement, another seasoned participant, 26-year-old elephant Bhima, will not take part in this year's main Jumbo Savari. Bhima is currently experiencing Musth, a natural biological state in male elephants characterized by a severe surge in testosterone levels that can cause unpredictable or aggressive behavioral changes.
Prioritizing public safety and the orderly execution of the festival, wildlife authorities decided not to include Bhima in the active procession line. However, he has been placed in reserve status as a backup measure. With Abhimanyu retired and Bhima on reserve, this year's Mysuru Dasara will feature a refreshed lineup of elephants leading the historic grand march.
