Bengaluru: Actress Ramya, also known as Divya Spandana, has expressed concern over the condition of elephant Somanna, which reportedly went out of control during the Shimoga Dasara Jamboo Savari, and urged authorities to provide immediate medical attention to the animal.
In a post on X, Ramya said Somanna appeared to be in pain and was limping. She pointed out that the elephant had been brought from its camp just days before the procession and made to walk through narrow streets packed with crowds. The situation, she suggested, could have caused fear and anxiety for the animal.
Ramya noted that no one was injured in the incident but expressed concern that the elephant could have faced punishment had anyone been hurt. Questioning why a truck had not been arranged to transport Somanna for treatment, she called for urgent medical assistance.
Appealing to Forest Minister Ramalinga Reddy, Ramya urged him to intervene and ensure that Somanna receives the necessary care. She also called for a review of the practice of using camp elephants in public processions, stressing the need for compassion and sensitivity towards animals.
The incident has renewed attention on elephant welfare and safety arrangements during public festivities. Somanna’s medical condition and the circumstances surrounding the incident require assessment by the concerned authorities.
This is Somanna, an elephant brought from a camp a few days ago for a procession in Shivamogga. He was led through narrow streets packed with people. Frightened and anxious, he ran amok. Thankfully no one was hurt, or he would have been the one punished.
You can clearly see Somanna limping. He is in pain. Couldn’t a truck have been arranged to take him for medical care?
@RLR_BTM Sir, I know how much you love animals. Please look into this urgently, because Somanna needs medical care now. I also request that camp elephants no longer be allowed for such processions. Elephants, and all animals, deserve our compassion and empathy.— Ramya/Divya Spandana (@divyaspandana) October 21, 2026
