Elephant Freed After 50 Years’ Captivity Celebrates 12th Year at SOS Sanctuary

Phoolkali, a resilient female elephant, was plucked from the torment of street begging in 2012 by the compassionate efforts of Wildlife SOS, a dedicated conservation NGO. Enduring over five decades of mistreatment and hardship on the streets of Uttar Pradesh, her days were fraught with abuse and suffering.

The scorching hot tarred roads took a toll on her massive frame, inflicting severe foot ailments like toenail abscesses, torn footpads, and festering wounds. However, salvation came when Wildlife SOS, in collaboration with the Uttar Pradesh Forest Department, intervened, bringing her to the sanctuary of the Elephant Conservation and Care Centre (ECCC) in Mathura.

Upon her arrival at ECCC, Phoolkali bore the scars of her past, with a protruding spine and the telltale signs of malnutrition and dehydration. Yet, under the attentive care of Wildlife SOS’s veterinary team and elephant care staff, her fortunes took a turn for the better. Through a regimen of medicated foot baths, meticulous toenail trimming, soothing hydrotherapy sessions, and a nourishing diet, Phoolkali’s health witnessed a remarkable turnaround. Not only did her physical well-being improve, but her mental state also transformed, finding solace and companionship in fellow residents Emma and Maya, forming an unbreakable bond.

Dr. Ilayaraja S, Deputy Director of Veterinary Services at Wildlife SOS, remarked on the inseparable trio, stating, “The bond shared by Phoolkali, Emma, and Maya has been pivotal in Phoolkali’s journey to recovery. Their daily walks together are a testament to the healing power of companionship.”

Today, Phoolkali stands as a testament to resilience and renewal, relishing the freedom to roam the expansive fields of the Wildlife SOS center and indulging in the natural bounty of the vegetation. To commemorate her 12th year of liberation, the Wildlife SOS team orchestrated a special fruit feast, featuring an array of watermelons, pumpkins, and bananas. This lavish spread was met with sheer delight by Phoolkali, Emma, and Maya, the trio reveling in their shared joy.

Kartick Satyanarayan, Co-founder and CEO of Wildlife SOS, emphasized the importance of companionship in Phoolkali’s journey, stating, “Though devoid of a traditional herd, the bond forged between Phoolkali and her companions provides her with the emotional fortitude to face each new day with resilience.”