Bheema, the strongest among Dasara elephants
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Mysuru: With Mysuru Dasara festivities fast approaching, the majestic Abhimanyu-led elephant team, has settled at the camp in Mysore Palace premises, after a grand welcome ceremony on Sunday.
On Monday morning, Forest officials escorted the elephants to Sairam Weighbridge on Dhanwanthri Road for their annual weight check.
Golden Howdah carrier Abhimanyu, the 59-year-old tusker, renowned for his role in forest department operations and fondly known as the “AK-47 Abhimanyu,” weighed in at 5,360 kg. Following the legacy of the legendary Arjuna, Abhimanyu has been designated as this year’s Howdah elephant, tasked with carrying the 750-kg golden howdah and Goddess Chamundeshwari’s idol during the grand Vijayadashami procession.
However, the surprise of the day was ‘Bheema’, who tipped the scales at 5,465 kg, making him the heaviest and strongest among this year’s first batch of nine Dasara elephants.
Participating in the festivities since 2017, Bheema, has gained immense popularity among elephant lovers, emerging as a fan favourite after Arjuna.
Weight Chart of Dasara Elephants 2025:
Bheema – 5,465 kg
Abhimanyu – 5,360 kg
Dhananjaya – 5,310 kg
Ekalavya – 5,305 kg
Mahendra – 5,120 kg
Prashantha – 5,110 kg
Kanjan – 4,880 kg
Lakshmi – 3,730 kg
Kaveri – 3,010 kg
Mysuru Dasara will commence on September 22, culminating with Jamboo Savari on Vijayadashami on October 2.
In preparation, the elephants will participate in daily rehearsals, walking from Mysore Palace to Bannimantapa, gradually getting accustomed to the weight and grandeur of the golden howdah, amid the hustle and bustle.
– Team Mysoorunews
Mysooru News
