Balarama (1956-2023) was the lead elephant of the Mysore Dasara procession and carried the idol of goddess Chamundeshwari on the fabled Golden Ambari thirteen times in a row, between 1999 and 2011. Of the many elephants participating, Balarama was one of the star attractions, admired for his majestic appearance. Known for his silent nature and calm disposition, he underwent a special training so he could withstand the firing of cannons that occurs during the festival.