Health Camp Organized for Dasara Elephant Mahouts

Quick Summary

• HEARt Organisation, Mysuru, collaborated with avant BKG Hospital to organize a health check-up camp for mahouts and kaavadis involved in teh Dasara elephant festivities.
• The initiative aimed to identify health issues in their early stages and provide necessary consultations for further treatment.
• A total of 45 individuals underwent general health check-ups; 45 were screened for blood pressure and diabetes; 35 received CBC tests, and five underwent ECG examinations during the camp.
• The event also extended healthcare services to family members of the mahouts and kaavadis as part of a special gesture honoring their critical roles in Dasara celebrations.
• Dr. Shobha Balakrishnegowda, managing director of Avant BKG Hospital, was among those present at the event.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The health check-up camp organized by HEARt Organisation reflects an essential step towards acknowledging the indispensable contribution of mahouts and kaavadis to cultural events like Mysuru’s Dasara festivities. By proactively addressing potential health concerns through primary screening measures such as CBC tests, ECGs, and diabetes monitoring, this initiative enhances community-oriented healthcare accessibility for an underserved segment. Mahouts often engage in strenuous tasks while caring for elephants during high-profile events such as Dasara-and extending healthcare support reinforces societal recognition of their efforts. This partnership between non-governmental organizations (NGOs) like HEARt Organisation and private hospitals exemplifies effective collaboration that could be replicated nationally for similar communities working behind India’s vibrant cultural traditions.

Read more: Published – September 10, 2025