Jumbo glamour

Pachyderm researcher refutes load theory:

By Nilma Dole

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The annual ‘Esala Perehera’ will glitter the hill capital once again this month amidst tight security, despite polls in the North Central and Sabaragamuwa Province elections.

Some hold the view that elephants that parade the streets are made to carry heavy batteries to power the illuminations draped on the body of the animals, thus causing discomfort and health complications.

This was pooh-poohed by the Diyawadena Nilame’s secretary, Sunel Rambukpotha who stated that the century old Perehera traditions that started way back in 300 AD have no negative effects on elephants.

Such gigantic animals have helped steer humankind forward with the immense workload they execute. He emphasised “Even the elephant tusker selection process is a historical and intensive analysis where we will select the elephants that are capable only”.

The perehera is held once a year lasting 10 days and the traditions have been longstanding without any change, he said.

Rambukpotha commented, “All around the world, elephants have been held in captivity. But we have a rich tradition, that helps elephants in turn”. As with Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage being the first of its kind in the world, Sri Lankans have always had a special place in their hearts, with love and care, for elephants.

Dr. Neshma Kumudini of the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home is also of the view that carrying a heavy load on their backs doesn’t affect elephants badly. But Dr. Kumudini who has done her masters degree on Thermoregulatory Mechanisms of Asian elephants, (during which period a comprehensive study of thermo-monitoring of elephants was done while they participate in processions) adds that modification of clothing will have a beneficial effect especially during warm weather.”

As for advice on how the elephants can be comfortable during the Perehera itself, she advises “Methods such as splashing the roads with water, wallowing prior to processions can be recommended and it is very important to keep the young elephants well hydrated as they do depend more on cutaneous evaporation to dissipate body heat.

She further stated, “A thick cover will create a layer of warm water vapour in between it and the skin and a cool environment will reduce the thermal gradient and hence the heat dissipation from the body. Light clothing used on an elephant is highly advisable so that the blood flows uninteruptedly”. The positive aspect that elephants will not be mistreated is a good indication.

Rambukpotha stated, “This time the traditions will remain the same but only the security will be tightened due to the current situation”. He said that people have made arrangements to see the procession from other places along the route but this time restrictions will be imposed to ensure a safe perehera.

He said, “We are hopeful to expect a large number of tourists this time also even though security will be high but access will be available to important people only”.

He added that with the help of the Central Provincial Council officials and the grama niladhari including a special organizing committee headed by the Maha Sangha and other dignitaries will ensure that the Esala perehera goes smoothly.

Chief Minister of the Central Province, Sarath Ekanayake said, “We have beautified the Kandy city limits by holding a regreening campaign in time for the Perehera”. He told that even though the elections are going to take place during the same month, Kandy will be safe and secure so that the procession goes on as well as the jumbo glamour.