Today, Raju embodies the spirit of elephant conservation in India.
At the elephant hospital near Mathura, Raju has become a global symbol of survival, inspiring change and changing the landscape of elephant welfare in the country.
Celebrating a decade of independence, Raju, now 60, symbolizes the journey from suffering to liberation. The story of their exploitation revolutionized how elephants are treated in India.
Rescued in 2014, when around 70 elephants were still enduring the harsh realities of circus life, Raju's resilience paved the way for a brighter future. Today, elephants are no longer forced to perform in circuses.
Just a few years ago, the streets of Delhi used to echo with the presence of elephants, which were rented out for weddings and processions. Fast forward to 2019 and these scenes became a thing of the past due to the deep impact of individuals like Raju.
By 2019, the last of these elephants, Jasmine, was brought to Wildlife SOS, marking a significant change in the capital's attitude towards these gentle giants.
Raju's defense shed harsh light on the grim reality of tourist rides and the abuse they face. This revelation strengthened the Wildlife SOS campaign, 'Refuse to Ride', which continues to advocate against such cruelty.
"The picture of Raju's tears flowing from his eyes during his rescue a decade ago is still fresh in our memories," recalls Karthik Satyanarayana, co-founder and CEO of Wildlife SOS. Fast forward 10 years, he is now No less than a member." , loved by all veterinarians and visitors."
Raju's story is not just about an elephant's journey from suffering to peace; It is a testament to the resilience of all elephants and the indomitable spirit of those who fought for their freedom.
At the elephant hospital near Mathura, Raju has become a global symbol of survival, inspiring change and changing the landscape of elephant welfare in the country.
Celebrating a decade of independence, Raju, now 60, symbolizes the journey from suffering to liberation. The story of their exploitation revolutionized how elephants are treated in India.
Rescued in 2014, when around 70 elephants were still enduring the harsh realities of circus life, Raju's resilience paved the way for a brighter future. Today, elephants are no longer forced to perform in circuses.
Just a few years ago, the streets of Delhi used to echo with the presence of elephants, which were rented out for weddings and processions. Fast forward to 2019 and these scenes became a thing of the past due to the deep impact of individuals like Raju.
By 2019, the last of these elephants, Jasmine, was brought to Wildlife SOS, marking a significant change in the capital's attitude towards these gentle giants.
Raju's defense shed harsh light on the grim reality of tourist rides and the abuse they face. This revelation strengthened the Wildlife SOS campaign, 'Refuse to Ride', which continues to advocate against such cruelty.
"The picture of Raju's tears flowing from his eyes during his rescue a decade ago is still fresh in our memories," recalls Karthik Satyanarayana, co-founder and CEO of Wildlife SOS. Fast forward 10 years, he is now No less than a member." , loved by all veterinarians and visitors."
Raju's story is not just about an elephant's journey from suffering to peace; It is a testament to the resilience of all elephants and the indomitable spirit of those who fought for their freedom.
