She wasn’t just an elephant — she was Kaziranga’s living legend.

On 17 May 1970, a young Mohanmala was entrusted to the park for anti-poaching patrols and security duties.

From that day on, she became the beating heart of Kaziranga. For over five decades, she patrolled its grasslands and forests, often putting herself in danger to shield the park’s world-famous rhinos.

When poachers threatened, she stood firm.

When floods came, she swam across raging rivers to rescue sick or injured staff — earning the title of the park’s unofficial “ambulance.”

Her head mahout, Kiran Rabha, told ETV Bharat: “Where boats could not go, Mohanmala went… calm by nature but fearless when duty called.”

At 60, she retired with honours, spending her twilight years in the loving care of park staff who treated her like family.

Last Thursday, Mohanmala’s extraordinary watch finally came to an end.

Farewell, gentle giant.

Kaziranga will never be the same without you.