Mysuru Dasara 2026 Begins With Grand Welcome for Elephant Squad

The world-famous Mysuru Dasara 2026 celebrations began with a grand welcome accorded to the Dasara elephant squad at the historic Mysuru Palace on Friday. 

The elephant squad entered the palace premises through the Jayamarthanda Gate, marking the beginning of preparations for one of Karnataka's most celebrated cultural and religious festivals. 

On behalf of the Palace Board, the elephants were accorded a traditional welcome amid festive celebrations and



performances by various art troupes.

Karnataka Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre welcomed the Dasara elephants by performing puja and showering flowers on them, following traditional rituals associated with the arrival of the elephant squad. 

The arrival of the elephants is an important milestone in the preparations for the annual Mysuru Dasara festivities, particularly the grand Jumbo Savari procession that traditionally forms the centrepiece of the celebrations.