Mysuru: Forest officials halted a Jumbo Savari rehearsal after Dasara elephant Mahendra stopped midway along the procession route on Thursday evening, October 8, while carrying a wooden howdah, a replica of the golden howdah used during the Mysuru Dasara procession.

The incident caused concern among officials overseeing the daily rehearsals for the grand Vijayadashami procession. Mahendra reportedly showed reluctance to carry the wooden howdah, prompting forest officials to remove it and call off the rehearsal for the day.

The rehearsal had begun at around 4 pm from the Mysore Palace premises. The elephants were expected to proceed towards Bannimantap, where the traditional Jumbo Savari procession concludes.

According to a report by Deccan Chronicle, Mahendra halted near the Government Ayurveda Medical College and Hospital Circle after travelling through K.R. Circle. Officials decided not to continue the rehearsal and arranged for the elephant to undergo a medical examination.

Mahendra shows reluctance to carry wooden howdah

Deputy Conservator of Forests Prabhugouda Patil said Mahendra had shown reluctance to carry the wooden howdah a couple of days earlier as well.

Officials suspected that moisture from the rain had tightened the rope connecting the wooden howdah to the elephant’s body, potentially causing discomfort.

Patil explained that Mahendra might have responded similarly during Thursday’s rehearsal because of the earlier experience. The elephant initially showed reluctance when the rehearsal began, but continued along the route before hesitating to proceed further.

Forest officials subsequently decided to remove the wooden howdah and stop the exercise rather than force the elephant to continue.

Medical examination finds no injuries to paw pads

Following the incident, forest officials arranged a detailed medical examination of Mahendra to determine whether a physical problem was responsible for his reluctance.

According to the report, the examination found no injuries to the elephant’s paw pads that could explain the discomfort.

Officials said Mahendra would be allowed to rest for a couple of days to help him regain confidence before returning to rehearsal.

The decision highlights the precautions taken during the preparation of the Dasara elephant squad, particularly for elephants being trained to carry the wooden howdah.

The wooden structure is used during rehearsals to familiarise elephants with the weight and conditions associated with the ceremonial procession. Officials monitor the animals’ responses and physical condition before deciding whether they are ready for the event.

Rehearsals underway for October 21 procession

The daily Jumbo Savari rehearsals have been taking place for more than a month as Mysuru prepares for the culmination of its Dasara celebrations.

The grand procession is scheduled for October 21, Vijayadashami day. It traditionally begins at the Mysore Palace and proceeds towards Bannimantap, featuring decorated elephants, cultural groups and other ceremonial participants.

The principal attraction is the golden howdah carrying the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari. The elephant selected for this responsibility undergoes careful preparation, with forest officials assessing its health, temperament and ability to carry the ceremonial load.

Mahendra is among the elephants being considered for the role. A final decision on which elephant will carry the golden howdah depends on the animals’ performance and suitability during preparations.

Officials prioritise elephant comfort and safety

The incident has drawn attention to the challenges involved in preparing elephants for one of Mysuru’s most prominent annual events.

Carrying a wooden howdah during repeated rehearsals requires the elephants to become accustomed to the structure, its weight and the equipment used to secure it. Weather conditions can also affect the ropes and materials involved.

Officials have therefore been monitoring the elephants closely and adjusting rehearsals when necessary. Mahendra’s examination and planned rest are part of those precautions.

The temporary halt does not, by itself, indicate that the elephant will be unable to participate in the procession. Officials will need to assess his condition and response after the rest period before determining the next steps.

With the Vijayadashami procession approaching, the forest department’s immediate priority is to ensure that the participating elephants remain healthy and comfortable throughout the final phase of preparation.