Mysuru: Discontent has erupted on social media over the Forest Department’s decision to exclude the famed ‘Combing Star’ Abhimanyu from this year’s Dasara elephant team.

Netizens have launched a ‘Justice for Abhimanyu’ campaign, demanding that the veteran elephant be brought to the festival and given a dignified farewell.

Traditionally, elephants that retire after carrying the Golden Howdah in the Jumboo Savari procession are honoured by being paraded at the front as the ‘Nishane’  (lead) elephant.

Both Balarama and Arjuna were accorded this ceremonial farewell after  their retirement.

However, Abhimanyu, who turns 60 this September, has been left out of the team, sparking criticism.

The campaigners argue that Abhimanyu, who successfully carried the Golden Howdah for six consecutive years, deserves the same honour and respect accorded to his predecessors.

The question now is whether senior Forest Department officials will respond to the growing public demand and allow Abhimanyu to participate in this year’s Dasara procession and receive a final, dignified send-off.