A story about an elephant named Kesavan illustrates the shift from exalted status to servitude in temple settings, according to The Hindu.
The Hindu reported on the changing status of temple elephants, using the story of Kesavan to illustrate their historical position.
Kesavan was an elephant at the Adi Kesava Perumal Temple in Thiruvattar, Kanniyakumari, and was a favourite of the King.
The elephant held a high status even when the King was a prince, and was reportedly feared by his own chief mahout.
The mahout suffered an emaciated leg due to the elephant's fury.
Following the death of the King, Kesavan's status changed from an exceptional animal to a slave to humans.
The elephant, which previously inspired fear, eventually became submissive and would assist the mahout in climbing onto its back.
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