Kaziranga bids farewell to Mohanmala, its legendary 85-year-old guardian elephant who served the park for decades, protecting wildlife and guiding generations of forest staff.
Kaziranga Bids Farewell to Mohanmala – The Beloved 85-Year-Old Guardian Elephant
In an emotional moment for wildlife lovers and forest staff alike, Kaziranga bids farewell to Mohanmala, the park’s legendary 85-year-old guardian elephant who had been a silent yet steadfast protector of the UNESCO World Heritage Site for decades.
Her passing marks the end of an era for Kaziranga National Park in Assam — a place where she was not just an animal, but a colleague, a friend, and a living symbol of resilience and loyalty.
Farewell to Mohanmala – The Gentle Giant of Kaziranga
For over half a century, Mohanmala was a familiar and reassuring sight in Kaziranga’s lush grasslands. Towering in stature yet gentle in demeanor, she played a pivotal role in anti-poaching patrols, wildlife monitoring, and park management.
Her name, Mohanmala, meaning “garland of charm”, reflected her personality perfectly — dignified, graceful, and quietly powerful.
Decades of Service to the Park
The story of Kaziranga bids farewell to Mohanmala is also the story of an unmatched service record. Mohanmala was part of the elite forest elephant team, often carrying forest guards deep into the park where vehicles could not reach.
From navigating dense swamps to crossing rivers during monsoon floods, she was instrumental in safeguarding one of India’s most critical rhino habitats.
Guardian Against Poachers
Her imposing presence was enough to deter potential poachers. Forest officials recall nights when Mohanmala stood silently under the moonlight while her mahout kept watch, alert to any suspicious movement. She had an uncanny ability to sense danger and would often stop abruptly, ears flaring, whenever a threat was near.
Farewell to Mohanmala – A Friend to Generations of Forest Staff
Over the decades, Mohanmala worked with several mahouts — each of them describing her as intelligent, cooperative, and deeply intuitive. She remembered old commands, recognized familiar voices, and even displayed affection toward those she trusted.
Ramen Bora, one of her longest-serving mahouts, said with tears in his eyes:
“She was not just an elephant; she was family. We worked together for years. Losing her feels like losing a part of my own life.”
The Role of Elephants in Kaziranga’s Conservation
Elephants like Mohanmala are indispensable in managing the park. While jeeps and motorbikes have their limits, forest elephants can access every corner of Kaziranga’s diverse terrain.
They help in:
- Rhino monitoring
- Tiger tracking
- Flood-time rescue operations
- Tourism rides (in earlier decades)
Mohanmala’s contribution in these areas was unparalleled, making her one of the most respected members of the park’s elephant squad.
Farewell Ceremony for a Legend
The day Kaziranga bids farewell to Mohanmala was filled with heartfelt tributes. Forest guards, mahouts, and park officials gathered to pay their last respects. Flowers were laid, and prayers were offered according to local traditions.
Her body was adorned with a ceremonial cloth, and many in attendance wept openly, recalling moments they had shared with her.
85 Years – A Remarkable Lifespan
Wild Asian elephants typically live up to 60 years in the wild, but in captivity with care, some live longer. Mohanmala’s 85-year lifespan is a testament to the care she received and her own strong constitution.
Park veterinarian Dr. Anupam Hazarika noted:
“She was a rare example of longevity among working elephants. Even in her later years, she remained active and alert.”
Mohanmala’s Connection to Tourists
In earlier decades, before tourism policies changed, Mohanmala was part of the elephant safari team. Thousands of tourists from around the world rode on her back to spot the famous one-horned rhinoceros.
Many still remember her calm gait and the way she would pause as if to ensure her riders got the perfect photograph.
Symbol of Kaziranga’s Heritage
When one thinks of Kaziranga, images of rhinos, tall elephant grass, and misty mornings come to mind. But for those who worked there, Mohanmala was just as iconic.
She represented the deep bond between humans and elephants in Assam’s conservation history — a partnership built on trust, respect, and mutual survival.
What Her Loss Means for Kaziranga
While Kaziranga still has other forest elephants, none have the same long legacy as Mohanmala. Her passing leaves a void in the patrol team, but her story will continue to inspire new generations of forest staff to protect the park with dedication.
Remembering Her Legacy
To honor her, the park authorities are considering naming a forest watchtower or patrol route after Mohanmala. This would ensure her name lives on as part of Kaziranga’s identity.
Wildlife conservationists also suggest documenting her life in photographs and stories, turning her journey into an educational resource for visitors.
A Lesson in Dedication and Loyalty – Farewell to Mohanmala
The tale of Kaziranga bids farewell to Mohanmala is more than just about one elephant — it is about the timeless spirit of guardianship. For decades, she watched over Kaziranga’s wildlife and people alike.
Her life teaches us:
- The value of dedication in conservation
- The deep bonds between humans and animals
- The importance of protecting those who protect nature
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