Will Abhimanyu get a royal farewell in Dasara procession?
Minister Eshwar B. Khandre urges Forest Minister Ramalinga Reddy to allow the celebrated tusker to participate in this year’s Vijayadashami procession as the Nishane elephant and give the veteran jumbo a ceremonial send-off
Celebrated elephant Abhimanyu, a 60-year-old veteran of the Mysuru Dasara jumbo squad, may receive a royal farewell in this year's Vijayadashami procession, as suggested by Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Minister Eshwar B. Khandre. With the Forest Department deciding to retire the tusker from Dasara duties, Khandre has urged Forest Minister Ramalinga Reddy to allow Abhimanyu to participate as the Nishane Aane (flag elephant) and give the veteran jumbo a dignified send-off.
Abhimanyu's emotional bond with the people of Karnataka is evident through his six appearances as the golden-howdah bearer, earning him a special place in their hearts. The Forest Department's decision to exclude him from this year's Dasara festivities has disappointed lakhs of admirers. To honor Abhimanyu's distinguished service, Khandre has pointed to examples of legendary tuskers Arjuna and Balarama, who continued participating in Dasara even after reaching the age of 60.
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