Kottayam, October 6, 2026: Kerala has bid an emotional farewell to Pallattu Brahmadathan, one of the state’s best-known temple elephants, after he died following a lightning strike. The tusker had been a familiar presence at major temple festivals for decades and was widely admired for his calm temperament.
Thousands Gather to Pay Their Final Respects
Large crowds gathered at the Pallattu family residence at Melampara near Pala to pay tribute to Brahmadathan.
People travelled from different parts of Kerala to see the elephant one last time, while his owners, mahouts and festival enthusiasts mourned his death.
Elephant Died After Lightning Strike
Brahmadathan died after being struck by lightning while tethered near his owner’s residence during severe weather.
The sudden death shocked elephant lovers and people associated with Kerala’s temple festival circuit.
A Familiar Face at Kerala’s Temple Festivals
For nearly three decades, Brahmadathan had participated in numerous temple festivals across Kerala.
He was particularly associated with prestigious celebrations such as Thrissur Pooram, where he had also carried the sacred thidambu of Paramekkavu Devi.
Known for His Calm Temperament
Brahmadathan earned a reputation as a “gentle giant” because of his composed behaviour even in crowded and noisy festival environments.
His calm nature made him a favourite among elephant enthusiasts and temple organisers.
Brought to Kerala Decades Ago
Brahmadathan was brought to Kerala from Arunachal Pradesh around 28 years ago.
He later became part of the Pallattu family, which has a long association with temple elephants and Kerala’s festival traditions.
Funeral Held With Traditional Rituals
The elephant was adorned with flowers and given a ceremonial farewell.
Reports said funeral rites were performed with deep emotional involvement from the family and local community, reflecting the special place Brahmadathan had in their lives.
Social Media Flooded With Tributes
Following news of his death, photographs and videos of Brahmadathan from past temple festivals were widely shared online.
Many users remembered his majestic appearance and long association with Kerala’s cultural celebrations.
Death Marks End of an Era for Festival Followers
For many festival enthusiasts, Brahmadathan’s death represents the loss of a familiar symbol of Kerala’s traditional temple celebrations.
His long presence at major festivals had made him one of the state’s most recognisable captive elephants.
Source – The Indian Express, The New Indian Express, NDTV
Supreme News Network
