MYSURU: Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar is set to receive a special idol of his revered deity, Gangadhara Ajjayya, as part of a tradition observed during the Mysuru Dasara celebrations. Mysuru-based sculptor Rajesh and his family have prepared the gifts to be presented to the Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister G. Parameshwara and other dignitaries following the Nandi Dhwaja puja on October 21.
The annual Jamboo Savari, which marks the culmination of Mysuru Dasara, is also set to feature a significant first this year, with elephant Prashan carrying the golden Ambari for the first time. The procession is one of the festival’s biggest attractions, drawing visitors from across Karnataka and other parts of the country.
Special idols prepared for Karnataka leaders
According to Asianet Suvarna News, Rajesh and his family have continued a tradition of presenting specially crafted idols to political leaders after the Nandi Dhwaja puja.
This year’s gift for Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar is an idol of Gangadhara Ajjayya, his revered deity, crafted in panchaloha, a traditional five-metal alloy. Deputy Chief Minister G. Parameshwara is set to receive an intricately crafted idol of Buddha, while Minister Shivaraj Tangadagi will be presented with an idol of Kanakachala Pathi, the deity worshipped at the Kanakachala Pathi temple in Kanakagiri, Koppal district, which is his family deity.
The idols are scheduled to be handed over after the ceremonial worship of the Nandi Dhwaja. The tradition adds a personal and cultural dimension to the Dasara proceedings, which combine royal customs, religious rituals and public celebrations.
Prashan to carry the golden Ambari for the first time
The elephant team is prepared for the Jamboo Savari under the leadership of captain elephant Prashan. A total of 12 elephants are expected to participate in this year’s procession.
Prashan, who has around 18 years of Dasara experience and is known for his calm temperament, will carry the golden Ambari for the first time. Kumki elephants Kaveri and Roopa will accompany him during the procession.
According to the report, Deputy Conservator of Forests Prabhugowda expressed confidence that the procession would proceed smoothly. The elephant team is expected to cover the 5.5-kilometre royal route, and special food has been arranged for the elephants during the event.
Former captain Abhimanyu to lead the elephant team
Former captain elephant Abhimanyu will lead the procession as the Nishane Aane, or flag-bearing elephant. He is also scheduled to receive a special farewell honour at the location where floral tributes are offered.
Elephant Gopi will follow Abhimanyu as the Naupat Aane. Mahendra, Srirama and Srikanta will form the first row, while Chaitra and Lakshmi will walk in the second row. Sugreeva and Ekalavya will be in the third row.
Prashan, carrying the golden Ambari, will bring up the ceremonial highlight, accompanied by Kaveri and Roopa. The arrangement reflects the coordinated preparation undertaken by the elephant team ahead of the grand procession.
Nandi Dhwaja puja and Jamboo Savari timings
The report states that Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar is scheduled to perform the Nandi Dhwaja puja between 1.36 pm and 1.56 pm during the auspicious Makara Lagna.
The floral tribute to the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari seated in the 750-kilogram golden Ambari is scheduled between 4.10 pm and 4.35 pm during Meena Lagna, marking the formal start of the Vijayadashami procession.
Deputy Chief Minister G. Parameshwara, district in-charge Minister Dr Yathindra Siddaramaiah, Deputy Commissioner Lakshmikanth Reddy, Police Commissioner Seema Latkar and other dignitaries are expected to participate in the ceremony.
The special gifts for state leaders and Prashan’s first Ambari procession are among the notable features of Mysuru Dasara 2026, as the city prepares for the grand Vijayadashami celebrations.