A program organized by INTACH Bhopal Chapter reveals Madhya Pradesh's role as one of the world's oldest elephant regions, its deep cultural significance, and the release of a documentary on elephant conservation.
The State Archaeological Museum in Bhopal hosted a program on World Elephant Day, where it was emphasized that Madhya Pradesh has been one of the world’s oldest elephant regions for millions of years. Fossils preserved in museums support this claim.
Addressing the event, Padma Shri Dr. Narayan Vyas pointed out the continuous depiction of elephants in Madhya Pradesh's art, culture, and literature since ancient times. He cited examples from rock paintings dating back thousands of years that demonstrate the region’s deep-rooted connection with these animals.
INTACH Bhopal Chapter Convener Shri Madan Mohan Upadhyay highlighted Project Gajlok's importance for Madhya Pradesh. Over the past year, the project has been documenting elephant-related stories and traditions across the State, focusing on their role in warfare, art, culture, and folk traditions. The project is supported by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, with INTACH serving as the institutional partner.
During the program, Padma Shri Dr. Vyas released the film ‘Gajlok – Wild, Sacred, Eternal.’ This documentary aims to raise greater public awareness about elephants and their conservation while highlighting the natural range of Indian elephants.
The special significance of elephants in temples of Kerala and South India is well known. In Madhya Pradesh, Gautam, the elephant of Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, holds a special place. Elephants also formed an important part of the royal symbols of the Gond kingdoms of Garha-Mandla and Ginnorgarh. The elephant symbol was also featured on the currency of Dhar State.
The world-famous UNESCO heritage site of Sanchi features exceptionally beautiful depictions of elephants, rarely seen at any other site in the world. Elephants are also depicted as Gaja Lakshmi. Lord Ganesha has been revered as a deity since time immemorial.
INTACH Bhopal has appealed to people to share any stories, accounts or information related to elephants so that these can be documented and incorporated into the national archive. Wildlife enthusiasts and students attended the program.
Source:
MPInfo English News
