In a late-night operation on Wednesday, the Vijayanagara district administration and Muzrai department relocated Lakshmi, the temple elephant of the Virupaksha Temple in Hampi, to an elephant treatment and rehabilitation centre in Kolar. The move, carried out around 1 am under heavy police security, came amid mounting public opposition and emotional scenes.
Protests and Security
Protests against the relocation intensified through the day, with devotees and locals arguing that Lakshmi was an inseparable part of Hampi's temple traditions and cultural identity. Demonstrations were staged in the town earlier on Wednesday, and a social media campaign opposing the transfer gained momentum. To ensure safety, police security was tightened, and SP Jahnavi S supervised the arrangements to prevent any untoward incidents.
Health Reasons for Relocation
Deputy Commissioner Kavitha S Mannikeri clarified that Lakshmi was shifted after signs of deterioration in her health were noticed. The elephant had been suffering from leg-related ailments and other health complications, and the stone-paved terrain of Hampi was reportedly aggravating her condition. She stated that Lakshmi would require special care for nearly three months at the Kolar facility and would be brought back once her health improves.
Emotional Departure
The departure turned highly emotional as the mahouts' family, who had cared for Lakshmi like their own child for several years, broke down in tears before the elephant was taken away. Clinging tightly to Lakshmi's trunk, they wept inconsolably, leaving many onlookers deeply moved. Rituals and prayers were performed before the elephant was loaded onto a specially arranged truck for transport to Kolar.
