Bengaluru: The Shivamogga Dasara Jamboo Savari procession was halted on Wednesday after the silver ambari carried by elephant Somanna fell, damaging the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari and leaving the mahout injured.
The incident occurred shortly after the procession began at Shivappa Nayaka Palace in Shivamogga’s Kote area. Somanna reportedly became agitated, turned around and began moving uncontrollably along the route.
Ambari and idol fall during procession
The mahout tried to bring the elephant under control, but the animal continued to sway. The silver ambari, reported to weigh about 450 kg, came loose and fell to the ground with the idol inside it.
One of the idol’s hands reportedly broke in the impact. The mahout fell from the elephant and sustained injuries. Several vehicles along the route were also reported damaged.
Local residents and staff secured the idol and its broken hand after the incident.
Elephant restrained after tranquilisation
Forest Department personnel and veterinary officers reached the scene. A tranquiliser was reportedly administered before Somanna was restrained.
Police worked to control the crowd and clear the area. The procession was stopped midway, and the elephant was later stationed near Kote Seetharamanjaneya Temple to recover after tranquilisation.
Somanna replaced elephant Sagar this year
Elephant Sagar had carried the ambari for the previous six years, reports said. Sagar was reportedly suffering from leg pain this year, and the responsibility was assigned to Somanna.
It was Somanna’s first time carrying the ambari during the procession. The exact reason for the elephant’s sudden behaviour has not been established.
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