Mysuru, July 20 -- Jumbo selection for Dasara turns tricky as.

The Forest Department is facing an unexpected hurdle in finalising this year's Dasara Elephant Squad, the star attraction of Mysuru's Nada Habba celebrations, as several key male elephants have entered musth, a periodic hormonal condition marked by heightened aggression and unpredictable behaviour.

Dasara festivities will commence on Oct. 11 and conclude with the grand Jumboo Savari on Oct. 21. As per tradition, the elephant squad is brought to Mysuru about 55 to 60 days before the festival, with the first batch scheduled to arrive on Aug. 26.

Ahead of the selection, Forest Department officials have visited elephant camps at Mathigodu, Dodda Harave, Bheemanakatte and Dubare...