Tusker Pallatt Brahmadathan dies after lightning strike near Erattupetta in Keralam’s Kottayam
Pallatt Brahmadathan, a 65-year-old tusker revered by elephant enthusiasts and a familiar presence at temple festivals across Keralam, died on Sunday evening after being struck by lightning during a thunderstorm near Erattupetta in Kottayam district.
The incident
The lightning strike occurred around 5.30 p.m. amid heavy rain that swept through the region. At the time, the nearly 10-foot-tall elephant was tethered near the Melampara residence of his owner, Kerala Festival Coordination Committee president Rajesh Pallatt. According to those familiar with the animal’s routine, Brahmadathan had been resting there following a recent bout of musth.
A temple favourite
Brahmadathan, who was brought to Keralam from Bihar years ago, grew into one of the state’s widely admired elephants on the temple circuit. He earned a devoted following for his participation in major festivals and was among the elephants that carried the idol of the main deity during the late-night Pooram procession of Paramekkavu Devaswom at the Thrissur Pooram, one of Keralam’s grandest temple festivals.
Known for his calm and gentle nature despite his imposing size, he was affectionately referred to by elephant lovers as “Gaja Kausthubham Pallatt Brahmadathan,” a title reflecting the esteem in which he was held.
Public response
News of the lightning strike spread quickly, drawing a steady stream of people to the elephant owner’s residence at Melampara. Mourners gathered to pay their last respects and catch a final glimpse of the tusker, whose presence had become synonymous with festive pageantry and temple traditions across the state.
Significance
Brahmadathan’s death marks the loss of a celebrated participant in Keralam’s temple culture, where elephants play a central role in ceremonial processions. His passing leaves a void for festival organisers and devotees who had come to associate his dignified demeanour with some of the state’s most cherished religious occasions.
