Sun Aug 17 17:58:06 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:
**Summary:**
The first batch of elephants have begun training for the annual Mysuru Dasara celebrations, culminating in the Vijayadashami procession. Nine elephants are undergoing a rigorous training regimen that includes daily 10km walks and weight training, with the lead elephant, Abhimanyu, preparing to carry the golden howdah. The elephants are also receiving a carefully planned diet to ensure they are fit and healthy for the event. A second batch of elephants will join the training soon. Dietary adjustments have been made this year, with butter being withdrawn and the addition of horse gram and finger millet. The goal is to build strength and ensure a balanced nutrition for the elephants as they prepare for the royal march.
**News Article:**
**Mysuru Elephants Begin Training for Dasara Festivities**
**MYSURU, August 17, 2025** – The first group of elephants have started their rigorous training for the highly anticipated Mysuru Dasara celebrations, set to culminate in the Vijayadashami procession on October 2, 2025.
Nine elephants, led by the experienced Abhimanyu, are currently camped on the palace grounds, accompanied by their mahouts and assistants. Their daily routine consists of a 10-kilometer walk from the palace to Bannimantap grounds and back, familiarizing them with the procession route. Weight training has also begun, with the elephants carrying sandbags that will gradually increase in weight, ultimately preparing Abhimanyu to carry the 750 kg golden howdah.
“The training is designed to build their strength and stamina for the procession,” explained Prabhu Gowda, Deputy Conservator of Forest. “We also ensure they are accustomed to the sights and sounds of the crowds.”
A carefully curated diet is also crucial to the elephants’ preparation. Male elephants consume approximately 750 kg of food daily, while females eat between 550 kg and 600 kg. The diet includes branch fodder, green grass, paddy/wheat, and a concentrated mix of green gram, horse gram, black gram, boiled rice, and vegetables.
This year, some dietary adjustments have been made, with butter being withdrawn and the addition of horse gram (hurali) and finger millet (ragi) to provide balanced nutrition and build strength.
A second batch of five elephants is scheduled to join the training next week. Veterinary doctors and forest officials are closely monitoring the elephants’ progress, ensuring they receive adequate calories and maintain their fitness levels. The rehearsal is proceeding smoothly, and officials are confident that the elephants will be well-prepared for the Dasara celebrations.
The annual Dasara festival is a major cultural event in Mysuru, attracting thousands of visitors and tourists. The Vijayadashami procession, featuring the elaborately decorated elephants, is the highlight of the festivities.
First Piper 