Former Mysuru Dasara Elephant Balarama, Who Carried The Golden Howdah For More Than A Decade, Dies Due To Illness

Balarama, the 67-year-old former Mysuru Dasara elephant died on 7 May at the Bhimanakatte elephant camp after being unwell for a long time. He is suspected to have died of tuberculosis.

Balarama died before the Indian Veterinary Research Institute could send a report on his blood samples said B.N.N. Murthy, the Conservator of Forests, Kodagu Circle.

He was captured in 1987 in the Kattepura forests near Somwarpet of Kodagu. His strength, physical structure and calm nature, made him suitable for the role of a ceremonial elephant in the Mysuru Dasara celebrations.

Balarama first carried the 750 kg golden howdah and the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari during the Dasara procession in 1999, after his predecessor Drona was electrocuted in the Nagarahole forests.

His last appearance was in 2011.

The Director of Nagarahole Tiger Reserve, Mr. Harshakumar has announced that Balarama would be buried near the elephant camp after a ceremony comprising religious rites and a gun salute.