Seven years after Raju the elephant was released from chains, The People returns to see the legacy that’s saved 40 more and learns how readers can help the good work
An elephant who cried as he was freed from 50 years spent in chains has learned to trust again after almost eight years in recovery.
Raju became a global symbol of hope among animal welfare campaigners and his rescue has led to 40 other elephants being saved from similar horrific abuse.
Today, Raju has a field to walk freely around, takes relaxing dust baths and even has a personal pool to splash about in, playing with his favourite toy – a huge rubber tyre.
But, says Kartick, the story does not end there. He stressed: “If anything, it begins from it. Our team now works with unparalleled dedication in tracking ailing, abused elephants from all across the country.”
Rescues Kalapna, Holly and Karma enjoy their dinner
Support from around the globe after Raju’s rescue has enabled the charity to save 40 more elephants – with the most recent rescue on New Year’s Eve.
Wildlife SOS veterinary team giving laser therapy treatment to Lakshmi
“Ginger was covered in chemical paint and charcoal decorations – used for wedding processions, but also to distract from her terrible abscesses and bull hook wounds.”
The extensive work is made possible by donations since Raju’s plight touched the world.
Kartick said: “His legacy is leading to the rescue of many more in desperate need, who will live out their days in peace and freedom at our sanctuaries.”
Wildlife SOS co-founder Geeta Seshamani
When Raju – thought to be 58 – was rescued in July 2014, he had been “owned” by 27 different people across five decades.
Kartick said: “It had left him gaunt and miserable. He was restrained with spiked chains and his withering body bore multiple scars and chronic abscesses – it was pitiful.”
He said: “Removing those chains was symbolic. As well as freeing Raju, for us it meant this great responsibility to give him a second chance at life.
“And as for the tears? It was so incredibly emotional for all of us. We don’t know how scientific this is, but it seemed like he understood that we were there to help him.”
Kartick says there are “many, many more” elephants still needing rescue, used for circuses, street begging, weddings and tourist rides.
He fears many people still do not realise the brutality used to make them compliant.
Pari stepping into the Wildlife SOS Elephant Hospital campus
They are deprived of sleep, food and water for months, tightly restrained, and beaten into submission with electric prods and bullhooks.
Lakshimi’s health has deteriorated drastically due to neglect and abuse
While many UK tour operators now promote cruelty-free travel, he says everyone can help by signing the petition at refusetoride.org.
Kartick added: “For every elephant ride that makes one feel like royalty, we must remember that the elephant suffers a lifetime of abuse and torture.
“With the help of the Refuse to Ride campaign, we encourage tourists to opt for ethical practices by refusing to ride them for entertainment.
“Our message is simple – if you love elephants, please do not ride them.”