It was time for double celebrations at Wildlife SOS’s Elephant Conservation and Care Centre in Mathura. While Rosie, a female elephant who was used for begging and wedding processions was rescued after a long legal battle and brought to the Centre, another inmate Chanchal who is 26 years old celebrated 10 years of her freedom!

Chanchal survived a tragic accident when a truck collided with her on a highway in Noida and she was left battered and broken there itself. She was moved to Centre where she could barely stand on her legs while her left hind joint was permanently diffused. Her body was covered with abscesses and wounds.

In the beginning she was wary of the new surroundings and also of the keepers and veterinarians. Over a period of time, patience and care on the part of the NGO’s doctors and caregivers made her comfortable and ensured that her wounds started healing.

Now she has two dear friends in Bijli and Laxmi who played a crucial role in her healing and the trio are inseparable. She goes to the fields on her own and forages for grass. Extremely fond of water, she spends hours in the pool.

Chanchal (on the left) with her bosom friends Bijli (centre) and Laxmi (right) enjoying her jumbo platter 

Making her 10th anniversary of rescue special, her caregivers designed a treat in the shape of the numerical ‘10’ using cherry fodder and also served her a jumbo platter with fruits and vegetables cut in various shapes. After a refreshing dip in Yamuna she enjoyed the treat along with her bosom friends.

Talking about her, Baiju Raj M.V, Director, Conservation Projects, Wildlife SOS said: “Looking at Chanchal, one can see that she has suffered a lot in her past—the abnormality of her gait and her torn ears, all from brutal beatings by a bullhook. Despite the scars all over her body, she carries herself proudly, because she is a survivor.”

Also read: ‘Rosie’ the injured 39-year-old elephant finally gains freedom from begging in Uttar Pradesh