With the grand finale of Mysuru Dasara fast approaching, the city is abuzz with excitement, experiencing a significant influx of visitors that has consequently doubled traffic density. On Monday, a vital rehearsal for the much-anticipated Jamboo Savari, the festival’s crowning jewel expected to attract millions, took place within the historic Mysuru palace grounds.
This initial full-scale practice session was a collaborative effort between the city police and the Forest Department. Abhimanyu, the majestic lead tusker destined to bear the revered golden howdah, led the charge, flanked by the experienced Kumki elephants, Lakshmi and Hemavathi.
A key part of the rehearsal involved a symbolic mounting of the golden howdah onto Abhimanyu, conducted near the royal family’s palace residence. During this solemn practice, flower petals were ceremoniously showered upon the participating elephants, adding to the grandeur of the preparation.
Following this, 21 rounds of cannon fire erupted, a crucial step to desensitize the elephants to the anticipated loud noises of the actual procession. Once the cannon drills concluded, the elephants elegantly proceeded to the Balarama Gate of the palace before returning to their designated camps. The full rehearsal involved the vibrant police band, the disciplined mounted police, and other city police contingents, all under the vigilant supervision of senior forest and police officials.
Meticulous arrangements are being finalized for the Jamboo Savari. Special seating areas for dignitaries, invited guests, ticket holders, and gold card holders have been meticulously set up within the palace grounds. Furthermore, provisions for the general public to comfortably witness the procession, both within the palace and along its route to Bannimantap, are nearing completion.
Prioritizing public safety, authorities have implemented strict measures to deter spectators from ascending unstable old buildings or trees situated along the designated procession path.
With just three days left until the Jamboo Savari, Mysuru is experiencing a massive influx of tourists eager to experience the festivities. Traffic congestion is already a noticeable challenge, prompting police to implement extensive measures to manage the flow, with even more vehicles anticipated in the coming 48 hours.
Reinforcements of police personnel from neighboring districts have begun arriving to bolster security for the grand finale. Security protocols will be significantly heightened, with officers strategically deployed at all crucial points along the procession route, guaranteeing a safe and seamless celebration for everyone.
Another comprehensive rehearsal is scheduled for Tuesday at 8 a.m. In the meantime, the specific roles for each of the magnificent Dasara elephants participating in the Jamboo Savari on October 2nd have been finalized. Abhimanyu, as previously established, will majestically bear the 750-kg golden howdah, accompanied by Kaveri and Roopa as the support (Kumki) elephants. Dhananjaya has been assigned the prestigious role of Nishane Ane, while Gopi will serve as the Naupat Ane, leading the procession with dignified presence immediately after the inauguration. The first team of Salaane elephants includes Mahenda, Srikanta, and Lakshmi. Kanjan, Bheema, and Ekavalya form the second Salaane team, with Prashanth, Sugriva, and Hemavathi completing the third.