No more elephants during temple processions, restrictions on DJ and Nashik dhol likely

In response to a series of tragic incidents involving elephants running amok during temple festivities, the Travancore Devaswom Board has decided to implement changes to the rules governing temple festival processions. These new guidelines aim to enhance safety and preserve the sanctity of traditional rituals.

One of the most notable changes is the decision to replace elephants with chariots for the procession. The Board may also introduce several other restrictions, including a ban on the use of DJs, Nashik dhol, and laser shows during the processions. Although elephant processions will still be permitted for ceremonial purposes, the new rules will limit their use strictly to the Pallivetta and Aarattu ceremonies. Further restrictions will apply in temples with limited space.

The procession will now primarily be conducted using chariots, following the specific rituals and ceremonies of each temple. Alternatively, temples may choose to adopt other methods of procession based on the particular deity they honour. The decision to move away from elephants has received support from the Yogakshema Sabha, a prominent Namboothiri organisation, which recently expressed approval of chariots as a safer alternative for the procession of gods and goddesses.

The Devaswom authorities have noted that the inclusion of elements such as DJ music, especially songs like ‘Azhagiya Laila’, as well as the use of Nashik dhols and laser shows, has led to heightened stress among elephants. This, in turn, has triggered incidents where the elephants went on a rampage, causing injuries and fatalities. The Board hopes that by replacing elephants with chariots, these risks can be mitigated, allowing for safer and more peaceful celebrations.

If elephants are still required for a procession, their number will be strictly limited. The Board has made it clear that they will no longer permit elephants to parade on the roads under the scorching sun, particularly during festivals like Sapthaham and Navaham, or other similar festival processions.

The issue of elephant use in temple festivals will be further discussed in an upcoming meeting with tantris (priests) and other key stakeholders, including representatives from other Devaswom Boards and experts in temple rituals. The point of discussion will be whether to continue the use of elephants for Shiveli processions. P.S. Prasanth, President of the Travancore Devaswom Board, confirmed that these matters have already been discussed with prominent figures like Tantri Kandararu Rajeevaru. Prasanth emphasised that the Board is committed to ensuring that elephants are not paraded in harsh conditions, particularly under the intense heat of the sun.