Setting an example for others, the villagers of Jamuti village in Karanjia sub-division of Mayurbhanj district on Saturday got their heads tonsured while observing the tenth day of an elephant’s death.
Notably, the tenth day of the pachyderm's death coincided with World Elephant Day today.
According to the villagers, a calf in a herd of 23 elephants fell ill near Munda Sahi of Baidyanath panchayat while the herd was moving toward Jharkhand. The herd didn’t stop for the sick calf and proceeded, leaving it behind.
Later, the villagers rescued the calf and made arrangements for its treatment. They informed the Forest department. Despite the best efforts of the veterinarians and the Forest department staff, the calf breathed its last on August 2nd morning.
A pall of gloom descended on the village. The villagers gave a tearful adieu to the animal. They came forward and performed the last rites of the animal.
On Saturday, they observed the tenth-day ritual of the animal. On this occasion, the villagers not only tonsured their heads but also threw a customary feast to which they invited the Forest department staff as guests.
It is pertinent to mention here that Jamuti village, located on the outskirts of Karanjia sub-division, has been known for the cordial relationship between the villagers and elephants for ages.