A night trap camera image of an elephant roaming in the elephant corridors of Poomaale Estate, Coorg

The Indian elephant, scientifically known as Elephas maximus indicus, is an opulent symbol often depicted adorned with jewels, vibrant colours, and armour. Abundantly found in the Indian subcontinent, it is one of the three subspecies of the Asian elephant. The association of elephants with India dates back to ancient times and even mythical events. These majestic creatures have played significant roles not only in historical and medieval warfare but also in various mythological tales. Unfortunately, the Indian elephant faces endangerment, listed as such by the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature).

Living Gods

Elephants hold profound sacred significance in Hinduism, particularly exemplified through Lord Ganesha, the revered deity known for wisdom and intellect. Their high intelligence is mirrored in Ganesha’s portrayal as a scholar, reflecting their respected status. As the mount of Lord Indra, Airavat, the elephant’s symbolism extends further to divine associations. 

One notable representation is Ganesha’s ride, the divine mouse (mushak), which signifies the harmonious coexistence of all big and small creatures in the ecosystem. Ganesha’s title, “Vighnaharta,” highlights his role as the remover of obstacles, akin to elephants’ ecological role in clearing paths and creating wildlife corridors for the rest of the forest residents to follow. Hence, Ganesha is worshipped first, considered the front-runner in seeking success and overcoming challenges. Furthermore, “Shree Ganesh” marks an auspicious beginning, seeking the blessings of Lord Ganesha for new endeavours and undertakings.

In Buddhist and some Thai traditions, “white elephants” are highly esteemed, reminiscent of Lord Indra’s Airavat, and considered royal elephants, denoting their regal significance. Additionally, South Indian temples often feature elephants in their courtyards, serving as noble companions to priests during religious ceremonies and activities, showcasing their respected position in these sacred spaces.

Elephants in Ancient Warfare

Elephants have played a prominent role in warfare throughout Indian history, serving numerous functions that bolstered the strength of armies. Depictions of elephants in war can be found in various forms like paintings, sculptures, scriptures, folktales, and even in cinema. They held a prime position in the army formation (vyuha) alongside chariots, cavalry, and infantry. From the Magadha dynasty (6th BCE) to the Palas (8th CE), all were known for their formidable forces comprising thousands of elephants.

Riding an elephant was as crucial a skill for commanders (senapatis) as horsemanship. Capturing, training, breeding, and caring for elephants became essential tasks to strengthen the army. These majestic creatures were trained to utilize their strong bodies effectively, causing maximum harm to the enemy. Sometimes, elephants were even intoxicated to provoke erratic and aggressive behaviour, adding a psychological element of shock to surprise and disorient the enemy.

Elephants served as vital nodes in the army’s organization; commanders rode them to gain an overview of the troops, while kings and princes were trained in elephant riding. They were strategically positioned at the troop’s rear and sides to protect the convoy from unexpected attacks. Their physical strength was also harnessed for tasks like destroying obstacles, aiding soldiers in crossing rivers, and clearing pathways.

Post-war, elephants became prized possessions, and their unpredictable nature in the chaos of battle sometimes led to harm to their own troops. With the advent of horse archers, firearms, and evolving military tactics, the use of elephants in wars gradually diminished. However, Turkic and Mughal emperors who later ruled India continued to employ elephants in warfare to some extent. Despite their decline in battle, elephants remain an enduring symbol of India’s historical military prowess and cultural significance.

Threats to Indian Elephants

Indian elephants face various threats that endanger their populations and habitats. The conversion of forested areas into agricultural land, urban expansion, and infrastructure development disrupt elephant habitats, leading to fragmentation and loss of critical corridors that elephants use for migration. As human populations expand and encroach upon elephant habitats, conflicts arise due to crop raiding by elephants, leading to retaliation by farmers, resulting in injury or death to both humans and elephants. 

Furthermore, elephants are targeted for their ivory tusks, which drives illegal poaching and trade. Even though Indian elephants have smaller tusks compared to African elephants, they are still at risk due to the demand for ivory products.

Lack of awareness and understanding about the importance of elephant conservation and the need for peaceful coexistence with humans contribute to the continuation of threats to elephants. Addressing these threats requires conservation efforts, community engagement, law enforcement, and policy measures. 

Corridors of Conservation

India has established protected areas such as national parks and wildlife sanctuaries to conserve elephant habitats. These areas provide a safe space for elephants to roam freely without direct human interference. Additionally, wildlife corridors are created to connect fragmented elephant habitats, allowing them to move between areas without conflict with human settlements. Many conservation initiatives involve local communities in protecting elephants and their habitats. This approach encourages the active participation of villagers in conservation efforts, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility towards safeguarding the elephants.

In instances where elephants are injured, orphaned, or displaced, dedicated rescue and rehabilitation centres work to provide care and reintroduce them to the wild whenever possible. Awareness campaigns educate people about the importance of elephant corridors and the need to avoid obstructing these pathways with infrastructure development. Governments and conservation organizations provide compensation and insurance to farmers who suffer crop losses due to elephant raids. This helps mitigate the economic impact on farmers and reduces hostility towards elephants.

Having a home in the Poomaale Estate, which is set amidst functioning elephant corridors of the dense forests of the Western Ghats, we are learning to live in harmony with these majestic land mammals. Our ongoing research on elephant behaviour and migration patterns informs conservation strategies, helping us understand better and manage human-elephant interactions.