Emotional Farewell to Elephant Abhimanyu in His Final Mysuru Dasara Procession

Senior elephant Abhimanyu, a major attraction at the famous Mysuru Dasara festival for over two decades, successfully completed his final appearance. Public and officials gave a grand and emotional farewell to the elephant during the concluding procession.

Abhimanyu led the Mysuru Dasara procession from the front as the 'Nishane Aane' (pilot elephant). Having completed 60 years of age, he retired from active Dasara duties. However, following special requests from fans and animal lovers, the forest department allowed him to lead the procession one last time. Thousands of people lined up along the Jumbo Savari route to pay their respects to the beloved elephant.

Abhimanyu successfully carried the golden howdah for six consecutive years from 2020 to 2025, earning a special place in the hearts of Mysuru residents. Apart from festival duties, he actively assisted the forest department in wildlife rescue operations and capturing wild elephants. Elephant Prashanth has now taken over the responsibility of carrying the golden howdah as Abhimanyu's successor.