In celebration of Dussehra, Kanjan has been selected as the crowned elephant, while Bhima has been designated as the Nishane elephant. Both will participate in various religious functions, including the private durbar hosted by the royal family at the palace.
The selection process was overseen by royalist Pramodadevi Wodeyar, who conducted the ceremonies on Sunday. Following the royal family’s request, a group of male elephants from the Dussehra guard—Bhima, Kanjan, Sugriva, Gopi, and Eklavya—along with female elephants Lakshmi and Hiranya, were brought to the palace’s Kannadi Totti for the selection.
Kanjan’s selection as the title elephant and Bhima as the Nishane elephant highlights the ongoing traditions of the Dussehra festival, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Mysore. The festivities are expected to draw significant attention and participation from the local community and visitors alike.