Keepers of the Elephant Hills

Anaimalai or Anai malai, a name that whispers the essence of its identity, translates literally and poetically to “Elephant Mountains”

Anamala, Anamalai, or Anaimalai – each variation of this name carries the deep resonance of its true custodians: the Asian elephants. These majestic creatures, the most ancient and genuine natives, have roamed and reigned over this extraordinary terrain since time immemorial. They not only inhabit but also shape the very identity of these biodiversity-rich forests. This incredibly biodiverse tract stands as the world’s second-largest contiguous habitat for the Asian elephant population, underscoring its vital significance for biodiversity and the survival of their populations.

Even on this rainy day, they didn’t miss their routine bath time.

At the end of each day, the elephants that roam in the forests are brought down to the river. They are washed and then fed rice balls mixed with jaggery. This routine is never missed, regardless of the weather.

He stood proudly beneath a tall teak tree, emanating wisdom and majesty. He put his trunk out, recognizing that his master was close. It’s a complex bond that I find perplexing. Although I’m glad that he is well taken care of, cherished, nourished, and looked after, I can’t help but feel a deep sense of sadness. It’s disheartening that he and his kind cannot roam freely like their counterparts. I struggle with conflicting emotions when I visit the captive elephant camp.

I hid behind a tree when I captured these images, pretending not to see his chain-bound legs. The mahout left to fetch some fodder, leaving me alone with him. For those few moments, I was in sheer awe and amazement. For a brief second, his eyes met mine. It felt as if I was in the very presence of the divine Himself.

The youngest camper, Sanjeev, loves hanging out with Urigan as their mahouts let them graze in the forest. Urigan is also social and shares a special bond with other tuskers like Kapil Dev, one of the dominant tuskers at the camp. Urigan is one of the few tuskers whose company is accepted by Kapil Dev. Observing the complex bonds and interactions between different elephants is fascinating and provides insight into their behaviour and social relationships in the wild.

Interactions among individuals at the camp greatly reduce stress levels and ensure a healthy lifestyle among elephants. Muthu and Devi are in their prime age, and such interactions may also result in reproduction.

Devi’s day out in the river!

Devi is one of six elephants caught in Tiruvannamalai for frequently raiding crops. Devi is now one of the gentlest females at the Kozhikamuthi camp. Lately, I’ve found myself drawn to her. Perhaps it’s because she now occupies the same place where my beloved and legendary elephant, Kalpana, once stood. She has become my new favourite.

On a chilly December evening, Kaleem’s mahout and the mahout’s family gathered around a kindled fire, sharing warm nuggets and stories. Kaleem stood among them, feeding on the mango leaves, for he is family.

In this scene, a young elephant named Sanjeevi approached the campfire where the mahout’s family had kindled a fire to ward off the cold. He stood there, nudging the mahout’s relative from behind with his trunk. He went to his daughter to grab the brinjals she was cutting for dinner. It was such a light-hearted, mischievous moment! We tried to shoo him away, but he kept coming towards us with his trunk, almost as if he wanted to be part of our gathering.

Kaleem and Devi swim freely in the stream that flows through the camp. Practices like these and providing surroundings closer to their natural environment help these gentle giants stay stress-free and lead calm lives.

With over 100 successful operations in India, Kaleem is possibly the most celebrated Kumki. He is trusted for his capture and drive expertise across various states like Tamil Nadu, Bihar, Assam, and Kanyakumari. Mani and Kaleem have stood by each other through thick and thin, like brothers. Come rain or shine, they were always there when the department needed them, especially during difficult times when only they could accomplish the job. Now, they lead a peaceful, retired life. Whether they are in captivity, under the care of our loving mahouts, or roaming free in the wild and cared for by the vast expanse of nature, these magnificent beings play a crucial role in maintaining the beauty of our forest lands. Without them, the world would not be the awe-inspiring place it is.