India, July 27 -- Kaveri, a female elephant at Dubare Elephant Camp, being tested during the selection process.

By M.T. Yogesh Kumar

Mysuru: The Forest Department has intensified the process of selecting four female elephants for the grand Jumboo Savari, the highlight of this year's Dasara celebrations.

The festivities will commence on Oct. 11 and culminate in the traditional Vijayadashami procession on Oct. 21.

The first batch of elephants, led by Howdah Elephant Captain Abhimanyu, is scheduled to arrive in Mysuru on Aug. 26. Ahead of their arrival, Forest Department officials are visiting elephant camps to conduct health examinations.

As in previous years, the Dept. plans to bring 10 male elephants and four female elephants for the...