Mysuru, 21 Oct (H.S.): Mysuru geared up for the grand finale of its Dasara celebrations on Wednesday, with elephant Prashanth set to carry the 750-kg golden howdah bearing the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari for the first time.

The goddess, adorned in a green sari, was brought from Chamundi Hills to Mysuru Palace in a specially decorated open vehicle after special prayers. Traditional music accompanied the procession, while devotees lined both sides of the road to seek blessings.

Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar is scheduled to inaugurate the Jamboo Savari by offering flowers to the goddess seated in the golden howdah during the auspicious Meena Lagna between 4.10 pm and 4.35 pm.

The procession will leave Amba Vilas Palace at 4.35 pm and proceed along Sayyaji Rao Road before culminating at Bannimantap grounds.

More than 70 folk art troupes and 32 tableaux representing different districts will showcase Karnataka’s cultural diversity, traditions and regional heritage along the procession route.

The participating elephants have been decorated with colourful patterns painted by artists. Their trunks, ears, tusks, legs and tails feature intricate motifs, including conches and leaf designs, adding to the spectacle.

Of the 13 elephants associated with this year’s celebrations, 12 will participate in the procession. Dhananjaya will lead the contingent, while Abhimanyu will serve as the flag-bearing elephant.

Lakshmi and Kaveri will accompany Prashanth as kumki elephants, providing support during the ceremonial march. Gopi has been assigned the traditional Naubat role.

Other elephants listed for ceremonial duties include Srikanta, Ekalavya, Mahendra, Sugreeva, Srirama, Roopa and Chaitra.

Prashanth’s debut as the howdah carrier marks a significant moment in this year’s festivities, with the elephant contingent forming the centrepiece of the celebration.

The ceremonial journey of Goddess Chamundeshwari, accompanied by decorated elephants, musicians and folk performers, will bring the festivities to a close amid devotion, colour and traditional pageantry.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman