World · India Bureau
Prashanth chosen to carry golden howdah at Mysore Dasara parade
The tusker Prashanth has been selected to bear the ornate golden howdah during this year's Jamboo Savari procession at Mysore Dasara. Two other elephants have been designated for supporting roles in the ceremonial parade.
LSN India ·

Prashanth, a tusker of considerable stature and training, has earned the honour of carrying the iconic golden howdah in the upcoming Jamboo Savari, the grand elephant procession that forms the centrepiece of the Mysore Dasara celebrations. The selection reflects the elephant's demonstrated capability to handle the ceremonial duties required during the festival's most visible event.
Dhananjaya has been named as the reserve ambari elephant, positioned to step in should any unforeseen circumstances require substitution during the procession. This designation ensures continuity of the celebrated tradition by maintaining a trained backup tusker on standby.
Abhimanyu has been assigned the role of Nishane elephant, a significant position within the procession hierarchy. The Nishane elephant typically leads certain segments of the parade, carrying ceremonial insignia and setting the pace for the elaborate pageantry that draws thousands of spectators annually.
The Jamboo Savari procession remains one of South India's most distinctive cultural events, showcasing the region's historical pageantry and the carefully trained elephants that participate in the Dasara festivities. The selection of these three tuskers represents months of preparation and evaluation by handlers and festival organizers.