Prashanth Selected to Carry 750-Kg Golden Howdah at Mysuru Dasara

The Forest Department has selected 54-year-old tusker Prashanth to lead this year’s Jamboo Savari and carry the 750-kg golden howdah at the grand finale of Mysuru Dasara on October 21.

The department announced the decision on Wednesday, citing Prashanth’s experience, physical fitness, calm temperament and overall suitability for the prestigious responsibility.

Prashanth has nearly 18 years of experience as a Dasara elephant.

Abhimanyu to take up Nishane elephant role

The selection marks the end of veteran elephant Abhimanyu’s tenure as the lead elephant after he carried the golden howdah for six consecutive years.

Abhimanyu will now serve as the Nishane elephant during the Jamboo Savari.

Dhananjaya has been selected as the reserve Ambari elephant, while Gopi will be the Naupatt elephant.

The Forest Department said a comprehensive evaluation was conducted before selecting the lead elephant.

The assessment covered physical fitness, load-bearing capacity, anatomical suitability, walking stability, endurance, temperament, experience and performance during training.

These factors were considered because the lead elephant is entrusted with carrying the 750-kg golden howdah during the grand finale of Mysuru Dasara.

“During the assessment, Prashanth emerged as the preferred choice for the prestigious ceremonial responsibility,” the department said.

With Prashanth’s selection, the department has identified the elephant that will carry out the central ceremonial responsibility in this year’s Jamboo Savari.

Source: The Hindu