Abhimanyu, the majestic elephant, is set to carry the golden ambari for the sixth time during this year’s Mysore Dasara Mahotsav. Weighing an impressive 750 kg, the golden ambari will be carried by Abhimanyu as he leads the grand procession, capturing the attention of people worldwide. This year, 14 elephants will participate in the world-renowned festival, with Abhimanyu continuing his legacy as the revered bearer of the golden ambari.
Abhimanyu was initially tamed at the Mattigodu camp
Abhimanyu’s journey, however, began far from the grandeur of Dasara celebrations. Captured in 1970 from the Hebballa forest area in Kodagu district, Abhimanyu was initially tamed at the Mattigodu camp. Now 59 years old, he has evolved into a celebrated figure in wildlife operations, contributing significantly to the capture of approximately 140 to 150 wild elephants and helping in the successful capture of over 40 tigers.
Since 2012, Abhimanyu has participated in the Nadahabba Dasara Mahotsav, but it wasn’t until 2015 that he first became part of the iconic Jambu Savari procession. His extraordinary presence and composure during the event led to his role as the bearer of the golden ambari starting in 2020. Standing at 2.74 meters and weighing between 4700-5000 kg, Abhimanyu has cemented his place as a true hero of the Mysore Dasara, displaying grace and strength beyond measure.