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History Of Punnathur Kotta

Guruvayur, Kerala, India
Punnathur Kotta, also famously known as Anakkotta, is a unique elephant sanctuary that serves as the official stable for the elephants of the Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple. Spanning over 11.5 acres of lush greenery, it is home to more than 50 elephants, making it one of the largest captive elephant facilities in the world. These elephants are donated by devotees to Lord Guruvayurappan as a mark of their faith. The sanctuary was originally a palace belonging to the Punnathur Raja, and the old traditional mansion, known as a Nalukettu, still stands within the premises. The elephants here are not just animals but are considered sacred participants in temple rituals. Visitors can witness the daily life of these majestic creatures, from their morning baths in large stone tanks to their feeding sessions where they consume vast quantities of palm leaves, bananas, and jaggery. The sanctuary also serves as a training ground for "mahouts" (elephant trainers) who learn the ancient art of managing these giants. Among the residents are some legendary elephants like Guruvayur Keshavan, whose life is celebrated with a statue at the entrance. During the month of July (Karkidakam), the elephants undergo an Ayurvedic rejuvenation treatment known as Sukha Chikitsa, where they are given special tonics and massages. The atmosphere in the fort is tranquil, filled with the sounds of trumpeting and the rhythmic scrubbing of elephants by their mahouts. It offers a rare opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts and children to observe elephants from a very close distance in a traditional temple setting. The site is a perfect blend of Kerala's rich cultural heritage and its deep-rooted love for elephants.
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