Elephant Festival 2024 in India

Elephants play a special role in Indian culture, so it's no wonder they have a special holiday. The Elephant Festival was celebrated in Jaipur, Rajasthan, during the Holi celebration. The major attractions of the festival included elephant polo and elephant dances. The Elephant Festival also featured a tug-of-war game between an elephant and 19 men and women. The festival has not been taking place since 2013-2014.

Festival Customs

The highlight of the Elephant Festival is the colorful parade of bedecked, lavishly decorated elephants, as well as horses and camels wearing luxurious saddles, anklets, ear danglers, head plates, and other jewelry. The procession also includes chariots, palanquins, and lancers. People greet the elephants, sprinkling colors on them. In the end, the best-decorated elephant gets an award. Live concerts with traditional dances and music complete the festive atmosphere.

Location & Admission

Most events of the festival take place at the Rajasthan Polo Ground. The event is free to attend, so mind that the crowds could be rather large.

Ethical Concerns

The Elephant Festival is a very popular event in Jaipur; according to Rajasthan traditions, elephants are royal and precious animals. Rajasthan princes and kings are often portrayed riding elephants. However, animal rights activists have expressed concern about animals being covered with artificial colors. Because of these concerns, the festival was canceled in 2012 and 2014.

Current Status of the Event

The Elephant Festival has been canceled since 2013-2014. The event was replaced by a traditional Holi celebration, which is brimming with music, color throwing, and dancing.