Sri Karibasava Swamy Matha’s elephant from Tumkur for Bonalu celebrations in Hyderabad

The Karnataka Forest Department has permitted the use of 33-year-old temple elephant Lakshmi from Tumkur for the Bonalu processions in Hyderabad. She will participate in major events including the Ujjaini Mahankali Temple procession, beginning July 14 through July 21.

Hyderabad: The Karnataka Forest Department has granted permission for the use of a temple elephant from Sri Karibasava Swamy Matha, Horapete in Tumkur, for the upcoming Bonalu festivities in Hyderabad.

Following a request from the Telangana Endowments Department, the Karnataka authorities approved the participation of 33-year-old Lakshmi, an elephant belonging to the Tumkur Matha.

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According to officials, Lakshmi is scheduled to arrive in Hyderabad on July 12. After a day of rest, she will take part in the Sri Ujjaini Mahankali Temple Bonalu procession in Secunderabad on July 14.

From July 15 to 19, the elephant will rest and then participate in various Bonalu processions, including those at Sri Nalla Pochamma and Mahankali Devasthanam in Sabzimandi and Karwan. On July 21, she will join the Sri Akkanna Madanna Temple procession in Haribowli.

Lakshmi is expected to return to Karnataka on July 23, after a day’s rest. However, there is currently no confirmation regarding her participation in the Moharrum procession.

Last year, another elephant was permitted for Bonalu but was later deemed unfit due to health issues. This year, Lakshmi was approved as a suitable replacement.

Initially, the Telangana Forest Department had stated that an elephant from Ananthapur was being arranged. “Sri Karibasava Swamy Matha, Horapete has different branches, including one at Ananthapur. The elephant is being arranged from the Horapete branch,” an official clarified.