Mysuru Dasara 2026 begins with arrival of elephant squad

Preparations for the Mysuru Dasara 2026 celebrations have officially commenced with the Gajapayana, the traditional march of the elephant squad. The first batch of nine elephants—Dhananjaya, Prashanth, Gopi, Srirama, Kaveri, Mahendra, Lakshmi, Ekalavya, and Srikanta—was flagged off from Veeranahosahalli near the Nagarahole Tiger Reserve by Urban Development Minister Dr. Yathindra Siddaramaiah.

Following the procession, the elephants arrived at Aranya Bhavan in Ashokapuram, where they were provided with baths and rest to recover from the journey. The squad is scheduled to receive a grand traditional welcome at the Mysuru Palace before the main festivities begin. Karnataka Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre also participated in welcoming the animals with traditional rituals.

The ceremony also marked an emotional retirement for Abhimanyu, a 60-year-old veteran elephant who served in the Dasara festivities for 25 years. Additionally, officials confirmed that the Kambala buffalo race will be included as part of this year's celebrations.