The 12th of August is the day dedicated to the gentle giant...that is the elephant. Elephants are quite intelligent animals. They're found in the length and breadth of our country. They play a pivotal role in maintaining an ecological balance. The matriarch is the head of the family, and she leads the herd in the traditional migratory routes taught by her mother. Their memory is quite sharp. Gone are the days when they were gunned for their ivory. Ivory trade is banned all over the world. This has led to an increase in the elephant population! Elephants are tamed and used in temple activities. The world-famous Mysooru Dasara comes into our mind, and unfolds a picture of the grandeur of these majestic mammals ambling the roads of Mysooru carrying the reigning diety, Goddess Chamundeshwari! Their royal gait must be seen to be believed! These mammals have the right to live. Sometimes, they are seen in the outskirts of villages, or cities, raiding crops... Remember, they are retracing their migratory routes as we've encroached their territories. Let us understand the value of wild animals. Let us live and let live...