Veteran Tusker Abhimanyu Gets Special Nod for Mysuru Dasara Finale

In a significant departure from standard protocol, the Karnataka Forest Department has granted special permission for Abhimanyu, the 60-year-old veteran tusker, to take part in the 2026 Mysuru Dasara Jamboo Savari. The elephant will be accorded the ceremonial role of 'Nishane Ane' during the grand finale, marking a fitting farewell to an animal with over two decades of service.

The exemption comes after Forest and Environment Minister Ramalinga Reddy proposed that Abhimanyu be given this special status, acknowledging his invaluable contribution to the festivities and his long record in human-elephant conflict operations. Acting on this, Kumar Pushkar, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) and Chief Wildlife Warden, issued a special order on Friday permitting the tusker's participation.

Abhimanyu crossed the age of 60 in April 2026. Existing guidelines mandate the retirement of elephants upon reaching this age, though they may be allowed 'light work' if certified healthy by a veterinarian. Veterinary officers and caretakers at the Nagarahole Tiger Reserve and Mysuru have reported that Abhimanyu remains in satisfactory health.

The permission is strictly limited to the Jamboo Savari-2026. The order explicitly states that Abhimanyu must not be assigned strenuous duties or tasks involving prolonged exertion. He is scheduled to arrive at the Mysuru Palace 15 days before the main event for preparations and will return to his camp at Mathigodu immediately after the festivities conclude.

Earlier, Abhimanyu had received a ceremonial send-off during Gajapayana at Veeranahosahalli, which had sparked public demand for his inclusion in the final procession. Former Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre also supported the move, citing precedents where veteran tuskers were given ceremonial roles post-retirement. With this special dispensation, Abhimanyu will now receive a grand public farewell befitting his years of dedicated service.