An elephant in India made a heart-wrenching journey to pay its final respects to its long-time trainer, walking 15 miles to bid farewell.
Kunnakkad Damodaran Nair, affectionately known as Omanchetan, passed away at the age of 74 after battling cancer.
For six decades, Omanchetan had cared for elephants in Kottayam, Kerala. Among them was Pallata Brahmadathan, who had been under his care since 1996.
In a moving scene, Brahmadathan traveled two hours to join family and friends outside Omanchetan’s home for a funeral ceremony.
When the elephant arrived, it gently extended its trunk towards the trainer’s body, offering a final salute.
Rajesh, the elephant’s new handler, struggled to hold back tears during the emotional moment. Reflecting on the bond between the two, he shared, “When Brahmadathan came to the funeral, I couldn’t handle it. Their love for each other was undeniable.”
The duo had last appeared together at a festival in April, marking the end of a lifelong connection between the devoted trainer and his beloved elephant.
Read more Elephant News.
