‘Gajapayana’, the traditional but symbolic march of the elephants from their forest camps to the city of palaces, was flagged off at Veeranahosahalli near the Nagarahole Tiger Reserve on Monday.
After the traditional rituals and special worship of the jumbos, which were held between 12.34 p.m. and 12.59 p.m., the first batch of the caparisoned elephants led by tusker Abhimanyu began their journey to Mysuru.
With ‘Gajapayana’, the countdown to the famous Dasara festivities has begun, setting the stage for the annual event witnessed by lakhs of people. This year’s festivities are scheduled in the month of September. Of the 14 elephants selected to participate in the festivities, the first batch of nine elephants were ceremoniously flagged off, after the rituals conducted by a group of priests.
Minister for Forest, Ecology, and Environment Eshwar Khandre, Minister for Animal Husbandry and Sericulture K. Venkatesh, G.D. Harish Gowda, Tanveer Sait, Ravishankar, MLAs, and senior officials from the Forest Department and elected representatives from the district took part in the grand ‘Gajayapana’.
A large number of people, including local residents, tribals, and some tourists, watched the colourful proceedings. The event came alive by vibrant cultural performances that added colour and charm.
