Guruvayoor- Temple jumbos pay tribute to legendary tusker

GURUVAYOOR:In a moving spectacle, elephants of the Sree Krishna temple here paid floral tributes in memory of their legendary peer Guruvayoor Kesavan on the 32nd death anniversary of the majestic tusker, around whom are woven many a tale.

In a solemn procession, 33 elephants marched through the temple town to the Sreevalsom compound close to the shrine, where they showered petals at the feet of Kesavan’s statue.

Unlike on festive occasions, the elephants were stripped of their glittering caparison. One of them bore the picture of the presiding deity on its shoulders and another, that of Kesavan.

As the procession reached the eastern portals of the temple, the elephants paused for a moment and saluted the Lord by raising their trunks in utmost devotion.

After the ceremony, the jumbos were treated to a sumptuous feast (anayoottu), comprising huge balls of rice, jaggery, coconut and bunches of plantains.

Known for his majestic appearance, sensitivity and dedication to the Lord, Guruvayoor Kesavan was the subject of many a temple lore. A film was made on him shortly after his death.