Asia's second tallest elephant at Thrissur Pooram: Why he has a huge fanbase

Elephant lovers can't imagine Thrissur Pooram without the majestic presence of the tusker Thechikkottukavu Ramachandran. Once again, putting an end to all speculations, the undisputed king, Ramachandran, is set to grace this year's pooram. Unlike previous years, Ramachandran will bear the thidambu (the idol replica) of Chembukkavu Sri Karthyayani Bhagavathy this time.

With a towering head, a robust and thickset body, and sturdy legs, the 60-year-old Thechikkottukavu Ramachandran is synonymous with Kerala’s elephant lore. When Ramachandran arrives at the festival grounds in his vehicle named Rama Ratham, the collective chant of “Raman” from elephant lovers echoes like a sacred incantation. No other elephant in Kerala enjoys such deep affection and reverence from the public.

Ramachandran is known for holding his head high from the start to the end of the ceremonial procession, a unique trait that distinguishes him. He is the second-tallest elephant in Asia and arguably the elephant with the most enormous fan following. Titles such as the ‘uncrowned king of festival Kerala’ belong solely to Ramachandran. His perfect 18 toenails and gracefully sweeping trunk are among the features that enhance his majestic beauty.

In 1982, elephant agent Venkidandri brought the elephant named Moti Prasad to Kerala. In 1984, Thechikkottukavu Devaswom purchased him and called him Ramachandran, making him an integral part of Thrissur. Recently, rumours were that Thechikkottukavu Ramachandran would not attend this year's Pooram. The Devaswom had earlier stated that they had decided to withdraw him due to large crowds and difficulties in managing them. However, considering the overwhelming enthusiasm of Pooram devotees, they have now decided to include Ramachandran in the festival. “Thechikkottukavu Ramachandran’s place is in the people's hearts,” said Paapaan Raman (his mahout).

Earlier, he had been excluded from the Pooram announcement ceremony. Ramachandran has opened the southern gopuram entrance of the Vadakkunnathan Temple for Thrissur Pooram five times in the past. Now, elephant lovers across Kerala eagerly await to witness Ramachandran majestically bearing the thidambu once again in the coming days.