Dasara jumbo viewing at Mysore Palace…

Mysuru: The Forest Department’s decision to introduce entry tickets for viewing the Dasara elephants housed at the Mysore Palace, a first in the festival’s history, triggered widespread criticism and was withdrawn within a day following instructions from Forest Minister R. Ramalinga Reddy.

The Forest Department had yesterday introduced a new system to regulate the growing crowds gathering to see the Dasara elephants inside the  Mysore  Palace premises.

Visitors were charged Rs. 100 per adult and Rs. 50 per child, drawing sharp criticism  from the public.

Star of Mysore’s sister concern, Mysuru Mithra, carried a report on the move yesterday. Soon after the report came to the notice of Minister Ramalinga Reddy and the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF), the Department withdrew the ticket system.

Under the system, each ticket allowed visitors a maximum of 20 minutes to view the elephants. Visitors were prohibited from approaching the elephants, taking selfies or shooting reels, entering the bathing or feeding areas, or staying beyond the allotted time.

Sources said, the ticket system, with restricted viewing hours, was introduced based on the suggestion of Mysuru Deputy Commissioner G. Lakshmikanth Reddy. Officials said, the move was aimed at regulating the unmanageable crowds and generating funds for the welfare of Mahouts and Kavadis.

However, the decision immediately triggered resentment. For Mysureans, the Dasara elephants are not merely animals but an integral part of the city’s cultural and emotional heritage. Charging visitors to see them was viewed by many   as insensitive.

As soon as the matter came to his notice, Minister Ramalinga Reddy directed the Department to withdraw the fee. “Do not collect money for elephant viewing. Even the Zoo does not charge Rs. 100. Allow free public access,” the Minister directed.

Senior Forest officials were instructed to ensure that visitors were allowed to view the elephants free of charge.

“Viewing the elephants is a tradition and a major public attraction. Barricades alone would be sufficient to regulate the crowds, just as they are used at temples. Imposing a fee is unjustified and should be withdrawn,” several visitors had said.

There were also allegations that some staff members were selectively allowing their relatives and acquaintances closer access to the elephants, further fuelling resentment  among visitors.