India, June 30 -- First batch of nine elephants to enter Mysore Palace on Aug. 7; Training from Aug. 9

By M.T. Yogesh Kumar

Mysore/Mysuru: With heavy rains lashing the State ahead of schedule and most reservoirs nearing full capacity, the State Government has nevertheless decided to go ahead with this year's Dasara celebrations in full splendour.

In this backdrop, the Forest Department has proactively begun the process of selecting the elephant team, led by the iconic howdah elephant, Captain Abhimanyu. Over 25 elephants have been shortlisted, with the final 15 to be selected and officially announced in the second week of July.

For the first time in several years, the festivities will span 11 days, beginning on Sept. 22 and culminatin...