Elephant Day 2080: A Feast for the Elephants and Wildlife Delight (Photo Feature)

• Raju Jhallu Prassad

On the occasion of World Elephant Day in the year 2080, Thakurbaba N.P.A.-9, Bardiya, took a heartwarming initiative. This initiative involved the distribution of fruits to elephants, a symbolic gesture of appreciation and respect for these magnificent creatures. The venue for this touching gesture was the Raja Gaj Memorial Stambha (KHAMARI), a location of great significance in the realm of elephant conservation.

The Raja Gaj Memorial Stambha, KHAMARI, holds a special place in the hearts of conservationists and locals alike. It is dedicated to the memory of Raja Gaj, an illustrious Asian elephant that was once a source of immense pride for the region. This majestic elephant, whose existence left an indelible mark on Nepal, vanished under mysterious circumstances from its southwestern habitat in 2007.

Raja Gaj’s first sighting was documented in 1992 at the renowned Bardiya National Park, becoming a symbol of reverence and admiration across the nation. The final sighting of this remarkable elephant occurred in the village of Kailashi in 2007, where it stood an astonishing 11 feet 3 inches tall, making it the tallest known Asian elephant at that time. No other elephant in the Bardiya National Park has been observed with tusks larger than those of Raja Gaj.

The significance of this memorial KHAMARI goes beyond its association with Raja Gaj. It stands as a reminder of the ongoing battle for elephant conservation in Nepal. Despite the challenges faced in protecting these majestic creatures, the dedication and hard work of conservation workers continue to make a difference. The gesture of distributing flowers to the elephants at this stupa serves as a tribute to these unsung heroes, the individuals who tirelessly work to safeguard the future of Nepal’s precious elephant population.

In essence, this act by Thakurbaba of N.P.A.-9 on World Elephant Day 2080 embodies a profound appreciation for elephants, a reverence for Raja Gaj’s legacy, and a heartfelt acknowledgment of the conservation workers’ commitment. It symbolizes the unity of efforts in preserving the natural heritage of Nepal and underscores the crucial role that individuals and communities play in the ongoing battle for the protection of these magnificent animals.