Elephant Goes Rogue in Shivamogga Dasara Parade, 650‑kg Silver Howdah Topples

Shivamogda in Karnataka witnessed an unexpected incident during its annual Dasara procession when an elephant, part of the traditional parade, broke away from its handlers and ran erratically through the crowd. The animal's sudden movement caused the ornate silver howdah, weighing approximately 650 kilograms, to detach and collapse on the ground.

Video footage captured by onlookers shows the elephant veering off the designated route, its massive frame causing a brief disruption to the ceremonial march. The howdah, a gilded carriage used to carry deities and dignitaries, fell after the elephant's loss of control.

Local authorities were alerted immediately, and police and animal‑control teams arrived at the scene to secure the area and tend to the elephant. No official statement has confirmed injuries among spectators or participants, and the procession was halted pending safety checks.

The incident has sparked discussions on the use of live animals in public festivals, with officials indicating a review of safety protocols for future events.