Mysuru: Abhimanyu, the veteran elephant from Mathigodu Elephant Camp in Nagarahole Tiger Reserve, who carried the golden howdah during the Mysuru Dasara procession for six consecutive years, was accorded a grand welcome at Mysuru Palace on Monday as he returned to the festivities in his new role as the Nishane elephant.A traditional puja was performed at the Jayamarthanda Gate, the main entrance to the palace, following which Abhimanyu was ushered in amid a shower of flowers. Adding to the festive atmosphere, his admirers presented him with a specially crafted Mysuru Peta measuring 166 inches in circumference and weighing about 8kg.Designed in red and gold and modelled on the traditional turban worn by Mysuru Maharaja Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar, the ornate peta lent Abhimanyu a regal appearance. The headgear was placed on him after the traditional rituals, drawing admiration from those gathered at the palace.His admirers described the gesture as a tribute to his six years of service as the golden howdah bearer and his enduring association with Mysuru Dasara. Fans sporting T-shirts bearing Abhimanyu’s image were also present at the event. Krishnaraja MLA TS Srivatsa, a keen admirer of Abhimanyu, said the Dasara celebrations felt incomplete without the veteran elephant.“Finally, he has arrived for the festivities. I thank the govt for selecting him as the Nishane elephant. I am delighted to have participated in the puja ceremony,” he said.Deputy conservator of forests (DCF) IB Prabhugowda said Abhimanyu did not require special training as he was already accustomed to crowds, noise and the Dasara environment. However, as part of the preparations and as a precautionary measure, he will take part in rehearsals beginning Tuesday.Abhimanyu, now 60 years old, was relieved of the responsibility of carrying the golden howdah owing to his age. Following requests from his admirers, the forest department assigned him the role of Nishane elephant, enabling the veteran to continue his association with the Dasara procession.Cannon-firing rehearsals on Oct 7, 9 and 12Prabhugowda said cannon-firing rehearsals would be held on Oct 7, 9 and 12. He appealed to visitors to the palace who come to watch the elephants and rehearsals to maintain a safe distance and refrain from approaching the animals.
