Tusker Prashanth will succeed veteran elephant Abhimanyu as the lead elephant to carry the 750-kg golden howdah during the Jamboo Savari, the grand finale of Mysuru Dasara, on October 21.

The Forest Department announced the selection of the 54-year-old Prashanth on Wednesday, citing his experience, physical fitness, calm temperament and overall suitability for the prestigious responsibility. Prashanth has nearly 18 years of experience as a Dasara elephant.

Abhimanyu, who retired from the lead role after carrying the golden howdah for six consecutive years, will now serve as the Nishane elephant. Dhananjaya has been selected as the reserve Ambari elephant, while Gopi will be the Naupatt elephant.

According to the Forest Department, a comprehensive evaluation was conducted to select the lead elephant. Physical fitness, load-bearing capacity, anatomical suitability, walking stability, endurance, temperament, experience and performance during training were among the factors considered.

“During the assessment, Prashanth emerged as the preferred choice for the prestigious ceremonial responsibility,” the department said.