Great Indian Elephant

Have you wondered about the obsession for elephants in most Indian craft forms? You have elephants in sculptures,paintings,toys,fabrics...The bewilderment drove me to look around for answers, and I found quite a few reasons for the same.
                 Most craft forms are inspired by mythology, and the Elephant holds an important part in them. It is believed that elephant was one of the nine 'jewels' that surfaced when Gods and demons churned the oceans for the elixir of life. Also,'airavat',a special elephant with ten husks, is the carriage for the God of all Gods 'Indra'. And then of course, we have Lord Ganesha, the much adored and worshipped elephant God.
                 The majestic nature and regal gait of the Elephant also fascinated the emperors and monarchs. Elephants were their preferred carriage during normal times and in warfare. It is said that Alexander the Great, impressed by King Porus and his faithful elephant during his invasion in 325 B.C, cast a coin showing King Porus and his elephant beside himself & his horse.
                 Elephants are still an integral part of many temple festivals. The most notable one is the "Pooram" festival held annually in Thrissur, Kerala. Beautifully caparisoned elephants from two major temples are lined up for the "Koda mattam" (changing of umbrella) by the mahouts, accompanied by captivating percussion performances.