Monumental

3rd December 2025, Neyyar WLS, Kerala

The task seemed enormous but definitely not devoid of its charms. As we approached the boats to cross over into the wildlife sanctuary boundaries, the bathing elephants and those charmed by them caught our attention. Three elephants of various configurations were in the process of getting a scrubdown while gawking tourists video-ed the entire affair. The dedicated teams pursued the elephantine project of a luxurious bathing with a vigour matched by the tranquil expressions of their subjects. Important discussions on heritage awaited us on the path ahead but the brief glimpse into an almost sacred trans-species connection was a welcome addition.