Mysuru Dasara 2026: Elephant Prashant Debuts with 750-kg Golden Ambari
CM DK Shivakumar inaugurates the historic Jamboo Savari in Mysuru. Elephant Prashant carries the 750-kg golden howdah for the first time.
The grand finale of the Mysuru Dasara festivities reached a crescendo on Vijayadashami as Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar inaugurated the historic Mysuru Dasara 2026 Jamboo Savari procession. In a moment of profound cultural and religious significance, the Chief Minister offered floral tributes to Goddess Chamundeshwari, the presiding deity of the state, who was seated majestically in the golden howdah atop a decorated elephant.
A Historic First for Elephant Prashant
The highlight of this year's procession was the emergence of elephant Prashant, who carried the golden howdah—famously known as the Ambari—for the very first time. The Ambari is a massive structure weighing 750 kg, and its secure placement atop Prashant was the result of meticulous preparations to ensure the tradition was upheld with precision and safety.
The sight of the elaborately decorated elephant carrying the shimmering golden howdah against the architectural splendor of the Mysore Palace captured the imagination of thousands of spectators who gathered to witness the event.
Dignitaries Gather for the 'Crown Jewel' of Dasara
The inauguration took place during the auspicious Meena Lagna within the palace premises. The event saw a gathering of high-profile political and royal figures, emphasizing the cross-border appeal of the festival. Among the notable attendees were:
- Revanth Reddy, Chief Minister of Telangana.
- VD Satheeshan, Chief Minister of Kerala.
- Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar, Member of Parliament and representative of the Mysuru royal family.
Other key officials present included Mysuru District In-charge Minister Yathindra Siddaramaiah, Kannada and Culture Minister Shivaraj Tangadagi, Karnataka Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh, Mysuru Deputy Commissioner Lakshmikanth G. Reddy, and Mysuru City Police Commissioner Seema Latkar.
Celebrating 'The Splendour of Art'
The Karnataka Chief Minister's Office promoted the 2026 celebrations under the evocative theme, “the splendour of art - festival of culture.” Through official communications on X (formerly Twitter), the CMO described the Jamboo Savari as the "crown jewel" of the festivities, highlighting its deep connection to Kannada cultural heritage and its historical legacy.
“Devotion's Emotion, Tradition's Grandeur: Auspicious Beginning to the Historic Jamboo Savari,” the CMO shared, expressing hope that the blessings of Goddess Chamundeshwari would bring peace, happiness, and prosperity to all the people of Karnataka.
A Blend of Ritual and Royalty
The Jamboo Savari remains the most anticipated part of the Nadu Habba (State Festival), seamlessly blending religious rituals with royal traditions. From the floral tributes to the rhythmic procession through the streets of Mysuru, the event served as a powerful reminder of the region's enduring devotion and artistic richness, marking a spectacular end to the Dasara celebrations.