Elephant picks up, throws man during Valiyavilakku festival procession in Thrissur, Kerala

A video that has gone viral shows a captive elephant lifting and throwing a man during a temple procession at the Annamnada Mahadeva Temple in Kerala, where a 26-year-old was seriously injured in the attack, prompting organisers to temporarily suspend the festival.

The incident occurred during the Valiyavilakku festival, where devotees had gathered for annual celebrations. The injured man was rushed to Apollo Adlux Hospital in Angamaly, and his condition has been described as serious.

According to visuals that have circulated widely, the elephant was standing in position as preparations for the procession were underway. One individual appeared to be climbing onto the animal’s back, while another stood nearby holding a decorative item. Without warning, the elephant lunged at the 26-year-old man, wrapped its trunk around his legs, dragged him in front of its body and lifted him off the ground before forcefully throwing him aside. The sudden attack caused panic among bystanders.

Festival suspended, safety review likely

Following the incident, temple authorities suspended the rituals and confined the elephant within the premises to prevent further harm. Police personnel reached the spot to manage the situation and control the crowd. An elephant squad was deployed to assess the animal’s behaviour and to take measures to secure and later remove it safely.

The episode has renewed concerns regarding the use of captive elephants in temple festivals across Kerala. Elephants are traditionally part of major temple rituals, particularly during elaborate processions accompanied by percussion performances. However, animal behaviour experts have previously cautioned that loud sounds, large crowds, decorative elements and physical handling can cause stress to elephants, potentially leading to unpredictable reactions.

Officials are investigating the circumstances that led to the attack and are expected to review existing safety protocols for handling elephants during such festivals.