Bengaluru: What did it take to transform a wild elephant into a fearsome battlefield warrior capable of changing the course of history? And how did a dynasty that ruled the Bengaluru region more than a thousand years ago leave behind architectural marvels that continue to stand as symbols of Karnataka’s rich heritage? Visitors to this year’s Independence Day Flower Show at Lalbagh Botanical Garden, to be held from Aug 6 to 17, will find the answers as the remarkable legacy of the Western Ganga empire comes alive through flowers, sculptures, and immersive visual storytelling.Stepping into the iconic Glass House, visitors will be greeted by a stunning floral replica of Begur’s 1,300-year-old Naganatheshwara Temple, home to one of the oldest Kannada inscriptions mentioning ‘Bengaluru.’ Nearby, a flower-adorned recreation of Chavundaraya Basadi at Shravanabelagola, built in memory of Ganga king Rachamalla’s commander and prime minister Chavundaraya, stands alongside a spectacular vertical garden depicting the carving of the 57-foot monolithic Bahubali (Gommateshwara) statue — one of the greatest engineering feats of the Ganga era.Invincible elephant herdBeyond the floral artistry lies a fascinating story of power, strategy and survival. The exhibition will transport visitors to Battle of Takkolam (949 CE), one of South India’s most decisive medieval battles, where Ganga king Butuga II, mounted on his royal elephant, is believed to have slain Chola prince Rajaditya Chola, dramatically altering the balance of power in the peninsular region.“In fact, Gajashtaka, also known as Gaja Shastra, authored by Ganga king Shivamara II, is regarded even today as an important reference on the scientific care, management and treatment of elephants. We have recreated this episode inside the Glass House to help visitors understand the remarkable role elephants played in the Ganga kingdom and the history behind them,” said R Girish, IAS, secretary, department of horticulture.The exhibition will explore the extraordinary relationship between Western Gangas and elephants, long before the animals became protected wildlife. “There was an inseparable bond between the Gangas and elephants. They were not merely part of the dynasty’s royal emblem but also symbols of sovereignty and the backbone of its military strength. Alongside infantry and cavalry, elephants formed the core of the Ganga army. Kings and military commanders were extensively trained in handling and deploying war elephants. Historical records even describe sixth century ruler Durvinita as an expert in taming wild elephants during an era when khedda operations were widely practised,” said Ibrahim Maigur, director of horticulture.He added that elephant replicas have been placed throughout Glass House and around to showcase the dynasty’s enduring association with the majestic animals. According to officials, one of the most dramatic installations recreates the climactic moment of Battle of Takkolam. “As described in the Atakur inscription and by several historians, Butuga’s well-trained elephant locked the trunk of Rajaditya Chola’s royal elephant, immobilising it in the middle of the battlefield. Seizing the moment, Butuga swiftly ran along the elephant’s trunk and fatally struck Rajaditya with his spear. That single act turned the tide of the battle. Visitors can witness this dramatic recreation inside Glass House,” said M Jagadeesh, joint director of horticulture (parks and gardens).Beckoning Flower ShowTheme: The Glory of the Ganga EmpireDate: Aug 6 to 17Entry fee: Rs 80 (weekdays), Rs 100 (weekends/holidays) at all gatesFee for kids: Rs 30 (below 12 years) / Free for schoolkids in uniformTimings: 9am to 6.30pmOnline ticket booking: https://hasiru.karnataka.gov.in/flowershow/login.aspx
