Mysuru: Since the retirement of 60-year-old lead elephant Arjuna as the carrier of the Golden Ambari, the mantle this year has fallen on 54-year-old elephant Abhimanyu. In an exclusive interview with ETV Bharat, Dr. Nagaraj, a veterinary surgeon revealed the courageous and hardworking nature of Abhimanyu.
"Abhimanyu is very powerful and courageous, He has been participating in Dasara Jamboo Savari for the past 21 years. Abhimanyu is called the King of Operation in for his ability to corner wild elephants and tigers. The operations to nab wild elephants and tigers are headed by the Abhimanyu. Sometimes in the jungle, some elephants which are stronger than Abhimanyu will return when the strongest wild elephants challenge them. But Abhimanyu can't give up. Abhimanyu ensures the operation to be successful. So We call Abhimanyu the King of Operation." said Dr. Nagaraj.
"Abhimanyu was caught in the Hebbal forest in 1977. He has participated in Dasara continuously for about 21 years since then. Up until 2015, he carried the tableaux representing Karnataka band. Abhimanyu has been carrying a wooden Ambari idol in the traditional Jambusavari in Srirangapatna for the last 6-7 years," added Dr. Nagaraj.
Abhimanyu, known as King of Operation for his ability to help capture wild elephants and tigers which have strayed into human habitats. Abhimanyu has been taking part in Dasara celebrations for the past 21 years. This time Abhimanyu has been tasked with leading the Jamboo Savari and will carry the famed Golden Ambari.
This is the first time that Arjun will be carrying the Golden Ambari at the Mysuru Jamboo Savari. Dr Nagaraj explained that Abhimanyu's weight is between 5000 to 5200 Kg.
