Tusk injury or age? What kept Abhimanyu out of Dasara squad

Abhimanyu, the renowned elephant of Mysuru Dasara, has been excluded from the 2026 jumbo squad, sparking speculation over the reason behind his omission. While Forest Department officials claim his retirement age of 60 was the primary factor, the elephant's minor tusk injury at the Mattigodu camp last month has raised questions.

This injury involved a tiny chip in one of his tusks when the elephant struck a tree, and it is uncertain whether this damage influenced the decision. The elephant had been a consistent member of the Dasara squad for over two decades, serving in the golden howdah role for six straight years. Despite the controversy, the Forest Department has finalized a roster of 12 elephants for this year's festivities, with no decision yet made on Abhimanyu's participation in the procession.

However, there is precedent for retired elephants like Arjuna and Balarama to remain part of Dasara events, prompting calls for a ceremonial farewell for Abhimanyu.