Mysuru, Aug. 30 -- Dasara elephants to go on health-first diet; weight gain no longer in focus
In a significant shift from tradition, the Forest Department has decided to focus on the health and well-being of the Dasara elephants housed at the Mysore Palace rather than ensuring rapid weight gain during their stay.
Veterinarians and experts are being consulted to prepare a scientific food chart tailored to each elephant based on its age, weight and capacity.
For years, the special nutritious diet served to the elephants during their two-month stay at the Palace resulted in weight gains of between 300 and 550 kg.
While the increase was seen as a sign of strength, veterinary specialists have cautioned that sudden and excessive weight gain ...