Arjuna dropped from Jumbo Savari squad; Abimanyu to carry golden Howdah

Mysuru: Mysuru forest department officials have finalised names of five elephants – Abhimanyu, Vikrama, Vijaya, Gopi and Kaveri – for the Jumbo savari. Arjuna who has carried the Howdah for several years has not been included in the list as he is above 60 years old.

The list has been sent the list to the Chief Wildlife Warden for his approval.

This time around, Abhimanyu will be carrying the 750-kg Golden Howdah during the Jumbo Savari.

The jumbo squad will undergo a Covid19 test if needed, said Mysuru Division Deputy Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) M G Alexander.

Veterinarian Dr Nagaraju, who is also a caretaker of Dasara elephants, said that a swab test would be conducted and samples will be collected from the elephants for the same. According to him, the procedure of the test would be similar to that among humans.

Owing to the Covid-19 restrictions, the Jumboo Savari and Vijayadashami procession has been restricted within the premises of Mysuru Palace.

Around 20 days of training would be sufficient for the elephants since the tasks were limited to the palace, informed Alexander.