Mysuru, Sept. 4 -- Bowing to public sentiment, Forest Minister R. Ramalinga Reddy has directed the Forest Department to accord a befitting farewell to 'Combing Star' Abhimanyu, who has carried the Golden Howdah six times.

The 2026 Dasara will be Abhimanyu's final appearance and the celebrated elephant will serve as the Nishane Aane in the Vijayadashami procession (Jumboo Savari) on Oct. 21.

Abhimanyu was earlier accorded a send-off before the Gajapayana began at Veeranahosahalli and was subsequently sent to Mathigodu Elephant Camp. The decision drew strong protests from his fans, who termed it an insult to the elephant and his years of loyal service.

Campaigns and protests followed, with fans demanding that Abhimanyu be given the Nisha...