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Video: Elephant runs amok at Shivamogga Dasara procession, 650-kg silver howdah falls
The elephant was later reported to be recovering at the Kote Seetharamanjaneya Temple. Shivamogga's Superintendent of Police and Divisional Forest Officer were at the spot, overseeing the situation.
By Sagay Raj
An elephant carrying a 650-kg silver howdah ran amok during the Dasara procession in Karnataka's Shivamogga, damaging buildings and vehicles as people scrambled to get out of its path.
Somananna became agitated and moved through the streets before the howdah fell off its back. Locally known as the ambari, it is an ornate platform mounted on an elephant for ceremonial processions.
Veterinary officials sedated Somananna to bring it under control as police struggled to manage the panicked crowd.
The elephant was later reported to be recovering at the Kote Seetharamanjaneya Temple. Shivamogga's Superintendent of Police and Divisional Forest Officer were at the spot, overseeing the situation.
The procession was part of Dasara, Karnataka's state festival marking Goddess Chamundeshwari's victory over the demon Mahishasura.
The festival's best-known celebrations are held in Mysuru, where an elephant carries a golden howdah during the Jamboo Savari procession on Vijayadashami.