Hyderabad: In a heartwarming blend of tradition and compassion, Lakshmi, a 33-year-old elephant from Karibasava Swamy Matha in Horapete, Tumkur, Karnataka, is set to join Hyderabad’s vibrant Bonalu processions starting July 12, 2025. The gentle giant will participate in festivities at Ujjaini Mahankali Temple in Secunderabad, Nallapochamma Mahankali Temple in Karawan, and Akkanna Madanna Temple in Hari Bowli, bringing a majestic presence to the celebrations.
The Chief Wildlife Warden of Karnataka has granted permission for Lakshmi’s transport, ensuring she embarks on this sacred journey. Lakshmi’s arrival fills a void left by Rupavathi, a beloved elephant from Davanagere’s Sri Jagadguru Panchacharya Mandir Trust, who captivated Hyderabad’s devotees in 2024.
This year, the Trust declined to send Rupavathi, prompting the Telangana Endowments Department to arrange for Lakshmi. For Lakshmi’s mahout, Shankar, who has cared for her since she was a calf, this journey is deeply personal. “Lakshmi is like family. She’s calm and loves being around people. I know she’ll bring joy to the devotees,” he says, his eyes gleaming with pride. The decision follows a contentious 2024, when Rupavathi’s participation sparked debate after PETA India raised concerns about her health, advocating for a mechanical elephant to prioritize animal welfare.
After thorough medical checks, Rupavathi was cleared, but the episode highlighted the delicate balance between tradition and ethics. Lakshmi, known for her gentle demeanor, has been deemed fit for the journey, with officials ensuring her comfort. As Hyderabad prepares for Bonalu, Lakshmi’s presence promises to weave a new chapter in the festival’s tapestry. For devotees like Anjali, a Secunderabad resident, seeing Lakshmi will be a spiritual moment. “She carries the goddess’s blessings,” Anjali says, eagerly awaiting the processions. Lakshmi’s journey symbolizes not just tradition but the enduring bond between humans and animals.
