Buddhist monks from Wat Traimit in Bangkok blessed twin baby elephants, a male and a female, born to mother Chamchuri in Ayutthaya, Thailand. The birth occurred on June 7 at the Ayutthaya Elephant Palace & Royal Kraal, marking a rare event. The twins are the fourth and fifth offspring of their 30-year-old mother. The birth almost turned into a tragedy, as caretakers had to act quickly to prevent the mother from accidentally injuring her new daughter. One of the caretakers broke his leg in the process, but both babies were reported as healthy, bringing joy to all involved.
Twin elephant births are rare, and male-female twins are even more so. The Ayutthaya Elephant Palace & Royal Kraal, home to the newborns, stated that it was a first for the province, while a statement from the Thai government claimed they were the third such pair in the world. Monks from Wat Traimit blessed the twins in a merit-making ceremony, presenting them with a tray of bananas and cartons of milk. The event was a significant occasion, with the caretakers and monks coming together to celebrate the arrival of the rare twin elephants.
Elephants have a significant presence in Thailand’s national identity, with Thai kings historically riding them into battle and a white elephant symbolizing royal power on the national flag until 1917. As essential animals in the logging trade, many elephants were left without jobs due to deforestation, leading to their use in animal shelters or as tourist attractions. Despite a shrinking population of wild elephants in remaining forests, these majestic creatures continue to hold importance as symbols of Thailand’s cultural heritage and natural beauty.
The caretakers at the Ayutthaya Elephant Palace & Royal Kraal had been preparing for the birth of a baby elephant but were shocked when a second offspring arrived 18 minutes after the first. The mother, Chamchuri, almost accidentally injured her new daughter, prompting quick action from the caretakers to prevent a tragedy. One of the caretakers ended up breaking his leg in the process, but both babies were reported as healthy, much to the relief and joy of those involved in their care.
Elephants are known for their social nature and intelligence, often forming strong bonds within their herds. Researchers have made significant findings on how African elephants interact with one another, revealing fascinating insights into their behavior and communication. The blessing of the twin baby elephants by monks in Bangkok was a gesture of goodwill and celebration, highlighting the cultural significance of these majestic creatures in Thailand’s heritage and traditions.
The twin baby elephants born in Ayutthaya, Thailand, are a rare and precious addition to the country’s elephant population. The event was marked by blessings from Buddhist monks and celebrations by caretakers at the Ayutthaya Elephant Palace & Royal Kraal. Despite the challenges faced during the birth, the twins were reported as healthy, bringing joy and hope for the future of these majestic animals. As symbols of Thailand’s cultural heritage, elephants hold a special place in the hearts of the Thai people, representing strength, wisdom, and unity in their rich and vibrant history.
