The elephant can be seen splashing and rolling in a mud pool, revelling in the opportunity to play in the scorching heat.
Akila, the temple elephant in Trichy city, is given a mud bath to help the mammal ward off insect bites and maintain a normal body temperature with the arrival of summer.
Akila, 17, is one of the most popular visitors to the Arulmigu Jambukeswarar temple in Thiruvanaikoil, Trichy. The mud bath will act as a protective coating over Akila’s skin, helping the mammal avoid sub-burn. Akila will have access to an exclusive pool where she can enjoy the mud bath.
At the temple, Akila is surrounded by believers. The mammal is meticulous in its everyday tasks. The elephant leads the temple procession across the city, donning unique ceremonial garb and blessing pilgrims. Akila collects water for the ritual wash of the deity’s precious idols. Temple devotees take photographs with Akila, who has a large fan base and personal social media sites.
Once a year, Akila and the other elephants are sent to a rejuvenation camp, where they are caressed and cared for by their keepers. Punita, a Trichy devotee, stated, “Elephants are very fond of playing in the mud. We have come here to see Akila; my son is excited to see the mammal. Akila has been given a new ground for mud bath. It will protect skin of the elephant from sunburns and keep it cool. Elephants’ skin is very sensitive.”
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