Tamil Nadu’s Mahout Villages
The Tamil Nadu Forest Department has established a second dedicated ‘Mahout Village’ at Kozhikamuthi elephant camp in the Anamalai Tiger Reserve (ATR). This initiative follows the success of the first Mahout Village at Theppakadu in the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve. The new village aims to improve living conditions for mahouts and cavadies who care for captive elephants, strengthening the bond between caretakers and elephants.
Background of Mahout Villages
Mahout Villages are residential colonies built exclusively for elephant handlers and their assistants. The first village was inaugurated in May 2025 at Theppakadu Elephant Camp, Mudumalai Tiger Reserve. It consists of 44 houses equipped with modern facilities. This was the first time in India that such a project was undertaken to support elephant caretakers.
Significance
The second Mahout Village at Kozhikamuthi houses 47 mahouts and cavadies from the local Malasar tribal community. These caretakers look after over 20 elephants in ATR. The village is located in the Ulandy forest range near Top Slip. It includes visitor galleries and beautification efforts to promote awareness about elephant welfare.
Role of Mahouts and Cavadies
Mahouts and cavadies have traditionally been responsible for the daily care and management of captive elephants. Their duties include feeding, bathing, and guiding elephants during forest patrols and rescue operations. Many mahouts belong to indigenous tribal communities with generations of experience in elephant handling.
Facilities and Infrastructure
The houses in both Mahout Villages are built with drinking water, sanitation, and recreational facilities. Each house in Theppakadu is named after elephants that died while working in the camp. The villages provide a stable and dignified living environment, addressing long-standing issues of inadequate housing for elephant handlers.
Elephant Camps and Their Functions
Theppakadu Elephant Camp is Asia’s oldest and was established during the British era. It currently houses 27 elephants, including retired and baby elephants. Elephants here serve as Kumki elephants, used to drive wild elephants away from villages and to capture man-eaters. ATR’s Kozhikamuthi camp performs similar functions with its captive elephant population.
Community and Conservation Impact
The Mahout Villages recognise the integral role of mahouts in elephant conservation. Improved living conditions enhance the well-being of mahouts and thus the elephants. The initiative also promotes eco-tourism and educates visitors about elephant care, encouraging greater public support for wildlife conservation.
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