One of the major attractions of the Mysuru Dasara is the Jamboo Savari. This year, it will be held on Wednesday Oct 21. Find details of the Jamboo Savari here
As golden howdah elephant Abhimanyu retired from the duty due to its age, the forest department has shortlisted a new Howdah elephant for this year’s Dasara. To know about the Dasara elephants click here
The department has now announced that elephant Prashanth, aged 54 years, with 18 years of participation in Mysuru Dasara celebrations has been selected to carry the Golden Ambari during the Vijayadashami Jamboo Savari procession of Mysuru Dasara 2026.
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Dasara Jamboo Savari
Mysuru Dasara, one of Karnataka’s most celebrated cultural festivals, is a grand showcase of the state’s rich history, heritage and traditions. At the heart of the Vijayadashami procession is the majestic Golden Ambari, carrying the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari through the streets of the city. The elephant chosen for this honour plays a central role in one of the festival’s most cherished traditions.
The selection of the Ambari elephant involves careful consideration of several factors, including physical fitness, strength to carry the ceremonial load, body structure, walking stability, stamina, temperament and experience. The elephants are also assessed on their performance during training to ensure they can handle the demanding responsibility with composure and confidence.
Following a detailed assessment of these parameters, elephant Prashanth has been selected for the prestigious role of carrying the Golden Ambari during the Vijayadashami procession.
Why was Elephant Prashanth selected?
- 18 Years of Dasara Experience: Elephant Prashanth has been taking part in Mysuru Dasara for the past 18 years. Over the years, he has become familiar with the Mysuru Palace surroundings, the procession route, large crowds, ceremonial music and instructions from mahouts.
This experience is a major advantage, as the elephant carrying the Golden Ambari must remain steady and composed throughout the grand Vijayadashami procession.
- A Broad and Flat Back
Elephant Prashanth has a relatively broad, flat and even upper back, making it suitable for carrying the ceremonial Ambari. A stable back is important to help keep the Ambari properly positioned and balanced during the procession.
This physical feature was one of the important factors considered while assessing his suitability for the role.
- Ability to Carry Heavy Loads
Elephant Prashanth underwent several training exercises along the 11-km procession route to test his strength and endurance.
His training included:
- September 16, 2026: Carried a 700-kg sandbag load over 11 km.
- September 17, 2026: Carried a 1,000-kg sandbag load over 11 km.
- September 28, 2026: Completed an 11-km rehearsal carrying a wooden Ambari and sandbags weighing a total of 1,000 kg.
These training sessions helped assess his ability to walk the prescribed distance while carrying heavy loads. His performance during the rehearsals was an important factor in his selection.
- Calm Nature and Ability to Follow Instructions
An Ambari elephant must remain calm amid large crowds, loud music, other elephants and various activities during the procession.
Elephant Prashanth is known for his calm nature and ability to respond to instructions from experienced mahouts. His long experience at Dasara celebrations is an added advantage in handling such situations.
- Experience and Physical Fitness
At 54, elephant Prashanth is mature and experienced. The selection committee considered his 18-year association with Mysuru Dasara, physical suitability, performance during load-bearing tests, stamina and temperament.
Together, these factors supported his selection to carry the Golden Ambari during the Vijayadashami procession.
How are Dasara elephants assessed?
As part of preparations for Mysuru Dasara 2026, the participating elephants have been undergoing regular training inside the Mysuru Palace premises and along the designated procession route.
Elephants such as Prashanth, Sugriva, Dhananjaya and Ekalavya were assessed during rehearsals involving sandbags and wooden Ambari structures. Officials observed their walking style, balance, ability to carry loads, stamina, temperament and response to training.
Forest Department officials, veterinary officers and experienced mahouts were involved in the assessment. Special rehearsals were also held to familiarise the elephants with the sound of fireworks and other loud noises associated with the Jamboo Savari procession.
After comparing the participating elephants, the committee identified Prashanth’s long experience, suitable back structure, endurance and calm nature as the main reasons for selecting him for the lead Ambari role.
Roles of Other Elephants
The following arrangements have also been recommended for the smooth conduct of the Jamboo Savari procession:
Dhananjaya: Reserve Ambari elephant.
Abhimanyu: Nishane elephant, carrying the ceremonial flag.
Gopi: Naubat elephant, associated with the ceremonial music.
