Kerala: Elephant attacks man during temple festival, throws him in the air

New Delhi: A temple festival in Kerala transformed into tragedy when a captive elephant being used for the rituals suddenly attacked a 26-year-old man during a procession. The atttack reportedly left the victim him seriously injured and forced organisers to temporarily suspend the celebrations.

When and where did the tragedy take place?

The incident took place during the Valiyavilakku festival at the Annamnada Mahadeva Temple, where devotees had gathered for the annual festivities. In the clip that has gone viral, the elephant was seen standing in position as preparations for the procession were underway. One man appeared to be climbing onto the elephant’s back. At the same time, a man was standing close to the animal holding a decorative item.

Suddenly, without warning, the elephant lunged towards him. The animal wrapped its trunk around the man’s legs, dragged him in front of its body, and then lifted him off the ground. Moments later, the elephant forcefully threw him aside, sending bystanders scrambling in panic. The man was immediately rushed to Apollo Adlux Hospital in Angamaly for treatment. His condition has been described as serious.

How did the authorities respond?

The temple authorities temporarily suspended the festival rituals following the incident. The elephant was confined within the temple premises to prevent further harm. Ater the police an elephant squad was also deployed to assess the animal’s behaviour and take necessary measures to safely secure and later remove the elephant from the site.

There have been similar incidents in the past which have raised concerns around the use of captive elephants in temple festivals across Kerala. Elephants are a traditional and symbolic part of several temple rituals, particularly during major celebrations that include elaborate processions and percussion performances.

However, animal behaviour experts have frequently warned that loud sounds, dense crowds, decorations, and physical handling can stress elephants, increasing the risk of unpredictable reactions.

How did the attack take place?

While investigations into the exact trigger of this attack are ongoing, officials are expected to review safety protocols for handling elephants during festivals. According to an India today report, the elephant suddenly lunged towards the victim, wrapped its trunk around the man’s legs, dragged him in front of its body, and then lifted him off the ground. Moments later, the elephant forcefully threw him aside, sending bystanders scrambling in panic. The man was immediately rushed to Apollo Adlux Hospital in Angamaly for treatment. His condition is reported to be serious.