Elephant Runs Amok During Shivamogga Dasara Procession; Silver Howdah Falls

Shivamogga, Oct 22 : An elephant carrying the silver howdah bearing the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari ran amok during the Dasara Jamboo Savari procession in Karnataka's Shivamogga on Wednesday, triggering panic among spectators and damaging vehicles, officials said.

The procession was cut short after the elephant, Somanna, suddenly changed direction and ran through the streets, forcing people to flee for safety. The silver howdah mounted on its back fell to the ground and sustained damage.

Forest department personnel and police rushed to the spot to control the situation. Veterinarians administered a tranquilliser to bring the elephant under control, and the animal was subsequently secured with the assistance of other elephants and forest staff.

Two cars and three motorcycles were damaged in the incident, according to police officials. The mahout also sustained injuries while attempting to calm the elephant. However, no spectators were injured.

Somanna had been assigned to carry the silver howdah after the regular lead elephant, Sagar, reportedly developed a leg injury. The change was made shortly before the procession, and Somanna was carrying the howdah for the first time.

The procession began in the Kote area of Shivamogga and was halted midway following the incident. Officials said the situation was brought under control, while authorities are examining the circumstances that led to the elephant running amok.

The incident has raised questions about the preparedness and training of elephants deployed in crowded public processions.

The Jamboo Savari is a major attraction of Shivamogga's annual Dasara celebrations, during which a decorated elephant carries the deity's idol through the city.