No chance for new elephants in Jumbo Savari, Mahouts upset

NT Correspondent

Mysuru: After undergoing rigorous training alongside senior elephants for a continuous span of one and a half months, mahouts and kavadigars have expressed their discontent regarding the exclusion of new elephants from the Jumboo Savari procession.

The Mahouts and Kavadigars responsible for the new elephants, who had hoped to be part of the procession, voiced their disappointment over the decision made by the forest authorities.

Individuals named Rohit, Kanjan, Sugriva, Hiranya, and Lakshmi, who arrived with these new elephants, were participating for the very first time and had diligently trained alongside the senior elephants.

Throughout the lengthy training period, the new elephants, however, struggled to get used to the bustling crowds. Notably, these new elephants exhibited somewhat better performance during the Kushalathopu exercises.

"After rehearsing diligently for numerous days, we were confident that we would also accompany the elephants in the Jumboo Savari," remarked one of the mahouts.

"However, the forest department officials opted otherwise." Some mahouts and kavadigars, who preferred to remain anonymous, shared that they were torn between sadness and relief.

"We always took immense pleasure in participating in the procession, being amidst the massive crowd of people," stated another mahout.

"But if we had agitated the crowds with our cries and commotion, it might have tarnished our reputation. Some of us hope to be part of the procession in the next Dasara festival."

Hailing from the Bandipur Rampur camp, Rohit's elephant had spent ten years under the care of the royal family and had been adored by them.

Shrutikirti Devi, the daughter of Vishalakshi Devi, visited Rohit's residence daily to inquire about the elephant's well-being and offer its favorite food. They continue to provide special attention to the elephants until they return to the palace.