Authorities have advised the public to be considerate of their actions to avoid disturbing the elephants, who will be staying in the city until the end of the Dasara festivities. The countdown to Dasara has officially begun in Mysuru, where the city's renowned Dasara elephants have started their rehearsals for the impressive Jamboo Savaari procession. This procession will cover a five-kilometre route along the city's main roads, starting at the palace and finishing at Bannimantap grounds. The elephants are getting accustomed to the noises of vehicles, loudspeakers, firecrackers, and cannons with acclimatization exercises conducted twice daily – in the morning and evening. Spectators gather to see the elephants, especially during weekends when more people come to take photos of the procession led by the Howdah elephant, Abhimanyu. Authorities have urged the public to be mindful of their behavior to ensure the elephants are not disturbed during their stay in the city until the end of the Dasara festivities.
Guidelines for observing Dasara elephants:
- Follow the guidance of the mahouts and Kavadis, who have expertise in elephant behavior.
- Keep a safe distance to allow the elephants freedom to walk their designated path.
- Refrain from crossing the road in front of the elephants.
- Avoid taking photos or videos directly in front of the moving elephants.
- Do not honk, as it may disturb the elephants.
- Pass flowers to the mahouts instead of throwing them directly to have them placed correctly on the elephants.
- Refrain from feeding the elephants directly.
- Do not follow the elephants.
What is the Jamboo Savaari?
The Jamboo Savaari is the grand procession that takes place on Vijayadashami, the final day of the Dasara festival. It features adorned elephants, colorful floats, and performances by various cultural troupes.