Last week we made a short visit to Kabini and had the privilege to meet a few Elephants under training.
The lone Tusker
This Tusker was heading into the forest with the Mahout and his curious little son. There was a certain elegance in its gait as it swayed from left to right – truly an all terrain carrier. Notice the chains tied to its right foot, it was dragging it all along – wonder why they couldn’t remove the heavy chain though.
The chainer and the chained
This young Elephant under chains was the most amiable. Though the Mahouts/trainers had genuine care and concern towards all Elephants the truth remains that the Elephants are chained! I seized this rare photo opportunity when the angle and alignment were just right.
The playful
The baby Elephant was still being trained and was the most playful of the lot.
Feeding on Pineapple
The pineapple pulp was discarded in a few seconds, it apparently enjoyed the juice.
At dusk the Elephants were being lead into the forest for grazing and I was told that they will be herded back in the next morning. At the least these Mammoths of creation get their space for some part of the day!
