How Mysore Dasara's Star Elephant Bheema Enjoys Bath Time

Parents understand just how challenging it can be to bathe their children—getting them to stay still, coaxing them into the water, and ensuring they are properly cleaned. This task requires patience and persistence. Similarly, bathing elephants, with their enormous size and strength, can be quite a daunting task, especially for their mahouts (caretakers). Yet, there is one elephant that stands out when it comes to bath time—Bheema.

Bheema is one of the majestic elephants participating in the world-renowned Mysore Dasara celebrations of 2024. The grand festival, which is steeped in tradition and cultural significance, has already commenced its series of events. Among the initial preparations is the arrival of the first group of Dasara elephants, which have made the Mysore Palace grounds their temporary home. These elephants are not only symbols of royalty and grandeur but also key participants in the Jamboo Savari, the grand procession that is the highlight of the Dasara festivities.

Every day, the elephants engage in rigorous practice sessions to prepare for this grand event. After these sessions, it is essential to ensure that the elephants are well taken care of, including being bathed to keep them clean and comfortable. Bathing an elephant is no small feat—it requires immense effort to scrub their thick skin and ensure they are properly cleaned. Most elephants, due to their size and strength, may be reluctant or restless during this process, making the task even more challenging.

Bheema is different. When it’s time for his bath, all it takes is for him to be led to the water tank on the palace grounds, and he transforms from a mighty giant into a playful, docile being. As soon as Bheema reaches the water, he behaves like a carefree child. He happily lies down in the water, thoroughly enjoying the experience. Unlike other elephants, who might resist or show signs of discomfort, Bheema fully embraces his bath time. Once in the water, Bheema starts playing, splashing around, and making the most of his time in the water.

Every day, Bheema is brought to the pond for his bath, and each time, he displays the same serene and cooperative behaviour. The mahouts take special care of him, scrubbing him thoroughly to ensure he is impeccably clean. As the preparations for Mysore Dasara continue, Bheema’s playful and peaceful demeanour during bath time adds a heartwarming touch to the grandeur of the festivities.