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2026-08-27 04:23 UTC → 2026-08-28 12:15 UTC ·
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Preparations The ‘Gajapayana’ procession for the 2026 Mysuru Dasara festival have progressed with the completion of the elephant squad selection. A total has officially commenced. The first batch of 12 nine elephants—Dhananjaya, Ekalavya, Mahendra, Prashantha, Prashanth, Gopi, Srirama, Sugreeva, Lakshmi, Kaveri, Roopa, Chaitra, Mahendra, Lakshmi, Ekalavya, and Srikantha—have been chosen Srikanta—was flagged off from various Karnataka camps. Two additional elephants, Bheema and Harsha, are on standby for emergencies. A significant transition occurs this year with the retirement of Abhimanyu. Known as the ‘Guardian of the Forest,’ the 60-year-old elephant has participated in the festivities for 25 years and carried the golden Ambari for six consecutive years. Due to his age, he is being granted rest in accordance with Forest Department regulations. The ‘Gajapayana’ procession officially commenced at the Veeranahosahalli Gate near the Nagarahole Tiger Reserve. Reserve by Urban Development Minister Dr. Yathindra Siddaramaiah performed traditional puja rituals to flag off the first batch of nine elephants. This group includes animals from the Dubare Elephant Camp (Dhananjaya, Prashanth, Gopi, Srirama, Sugreeva, and Kaveri), Siddaramaiah. Following the Balle Elephant Camp (Mahendra and Lakshmi), and march, the Bheemanakatte Elephant Camp (Ekalavya and Srikanta). The elephants will be housed arrived at Aranya Bhavan in Ashokapuram prior to receive baths and rest. The squad is scheduled to receive a grand traditional welcome at the Mysuru Palace before the main festivities. festivities begin. Karnataka Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre also participated in welcoming the animals with traditional rituals. The transition marks the retirement of Abhimanyu, a 60-year-old veteran known as the ‘Guardian of the Forest,’ who served the festivities for 25 years. Additionally, officials have confirmed that the Kambala buffalo race will be included as part of this year’s celebrations.