After being held captive for 50 long years, a group of elephants were finally granted their freedom in a touching and highly-anticipated event. As their shackles were carefully removed, the overwhelming reaction from the onlookers was incredibly emotional, with many shedding tears at the sight. This momentous occasion not only marks a significant win for those who advocate for animal welfare but also serves as a powerful reminder of the unwavering strength and perseverance of these majestic animals.

Rajυ was once subjected to inhumane treatment, being bound in spiked chains for 24 hours a day while also experiencing physical abuse and starvation. Thankfully, Wildlife SOS, a charity organization from Britain and India, rescued him in a daring nighttime operation. Rajυ was overwhelmed with emotion and wept as he realized that his ordeal had come to an end. The heart-wrenching images of him crying as his chains were cut off were first revealed by the Sυnday People before receiving worldwide attention. According to Kaгtick Satyaпaгayaп, co-founder of Wildlife SOS, Rajυ has come a long way since then and has even learned to trust humans again, which is nothing short of miraculous considering the amount of suffering he endured.

The veterinary team of Wildlife SOS is currently providing Lakshmi, a rescued elephant, with laser therapy treatment. Lakshmi can be seen feeding Raju at the Elephant Conservation and Care Centre. According to one of the team members, Raju started showing his personality after realizing he was in safe hands, which was impressive to witness. Today, Raju enjoys walking around the field, taking relaxing dust baths, and even playing with his favorite toy, a large rubber tire in his personal pool. However, the team’s work does not end there; they continue to work tirelessly to track and help ailing and abused elephants from all over the country.

Kalappa, Holly, and Karma had a delightful dinner after being rescued. The charity received support from various parts of the world following Raju’s rescue, which enabled them to save 40 more elephants, including the latest rescue on New Year’s Eve.

According to Kaгtick, the recent cases of elephants rescued in December highlight the extent of their suffering. One of the elephants named Paгi arrived at the elephant hospital on December 1st and was left crippled due to being tethered in an abnormal position for decades. Another elephant named Giпgeг was found covered in chemical paint and charcoal decorations used in wedding processions. She also suffered from terrible abscesses and bull hook wounds. To make matters worse, Giпgeг is blind, likely a deliberate act to exploit people’s sympathy for profit. These heartbreaking stories demonstrate the 60 years of horror these elephants have endured, leaving them exhausted and in desperate need of care.

The most recent rescued animal is Lakshmi, believed to be the thinnest elephant ever seen in India at 25-30 years old. According to Karthick, it’s shocking to witness such a severely crippled and emaciated elephant like Lakshmi, making her one of the worst cases they have ever witnessed. The extensive rescue work has been made possible through donations, as Raju’s story touched people around the world.

According to one of the co-founders of Wildlife SOS, Kartick Satyanarayan, the rescue of Raju the elephant has had a lasting impact on the organization. Satyanarayan stated that Raju’s rescue has allowed for the rescue of many more elephants who were in desperate need of help and that they now live out their days in peace and freedom at their sanctuaries. When Raju was rescued in July 2014, he had been “owned” by 27 different people over the course of five decades, leaving him gaunt and miserable. He was restrained with spiked chains, and his emaciated body bore multiple scars and chronic abscesses. Despite the pitiful state Raju was found in, the charity boss was deeply moved by the moment his team cut Raju free.

According to Geeta Seshamani, co-founder of Wildlife SOS, taking off the chains from Raju was more than just a symbolic act. It meant that they had taken on the responsibility of giving him a second chance at life. The moment was incredibly emotional for everyone, and even though it may not be scientifically proven, it seemed like Raju understood that they were there to help him. However, Karthick, another member of the organization, believes that there are still many more elephants in need of rescue who are being used for circuses, street begging, weddings, and tourist rides. He fears that many people do not realize the brutality that these animals are subjected to.

The image presented by The People shows the harrowing reality of animals being rescued from captivity. These animals have been deprived of basic necessities like sleep, food, and water for months. They are retrained tightly and forced into submission through the use of electric prods and bullhooks. The process, known as “phajaan,” involves breaking the spirit of these animals by instilling fear so great that they will never retaliate. It’s a brutal process that can only be described as inhumane.

Pari entered the Wildlife SOS Elephant Hospital campus, and while many UK tour operators promote cruelty-free travel, there are ways for everyone to help. One such way is by signing the petition at refusetoride.org. Kartick, a supporter of the campaign, noted that every elephant ride may make one feel like royalty, but it’s important to remember that the elephant suffers a lifetime of abuse and torture. Through the Refuse to Ride campaign, tourists are encouraged to choose ethical practices by refusing to ride elephants for entertainment. Their message is clear: if you love elephants, please do not ride them.