Mysore/Mysuru, Aug. 5 -- Prashantha, Mahendra and Dhananjaya to undergo training as backup Howdah carriers

The first batch of nine Dasara elephants, led by the iconic Golden Howdah carrier and commander Captain Abhimanyu, reached Aranya Bhavan in Ashokapuram last evening.

Their arrival followed the traditional launch of the Gajapayana - the ceremonial journey from Veeranahosahalli Gate in Nagarahole Tiger Reserve - which began yesterday afternoon.

The nine elephants - Abhimanyu, Bhima, Kanjan, Dhananjaya, Prashantha, Mahendra, Ekalavya, Kaveri and Lakshmi - were transported in trucks, escorted by Police and Forest Department personnel.

Enthusiastic crowds lined the route, cheering and capturing the grand procession on their mobile pho...