Sir,

I am a proud resident of Mysuru, born and brought up in this beautiful city, where I have lived all my life. For over six decades, I have cherished a deep love, admiration and respect for the Mysuru Dasara procession and its rich traditions.

The Dasara elephants arrive in Mysuru nearly two months in advance, undergo training and preparation, and gradually become an integral part of the grand celebrations. Their majestic presence adds splendour and grandeur to the procession.

However, after seeing visuals of the elephants being transported back to the forest in trucks, with decorative colours still painted on their bodies, I was left concerned about their well-being. I am not fully aware of the effects these colours may have on the elephants once they return to their natural habitat.

Could the paint cause them discomfort or take a long time to wear off? Will the colours affect their well-being or make them appear unusual to other animals in the forest?

With due respect, I appeal to the Forest Department to consider removing the decorative colours from the elephants’ bodies before they are sent back to the forest, if this would help ensure their comfort and well-being.

This request stems purely from my love and concern for these magnificent animals, which have been an inseparable part of Mysuru’s cherished Dasara tradition for generations.

I hope the welfare of these gentle giants will remain a priority even after the grand celebrations come to an end.

—Dr. Jamunarani V. Mirle

Mysuru

22.10.2026