Kerala: Rejuvenation therapy for elephants begins

In Kerala, the month-long rejuvenation therapy for elephants belonging to the Guruvayoor Devaswom has begun at the Punnathurkotta near Guruvayoor in Thrissur district from July 1..The therapy involves providing a scientifically prepared balanced diet mixed with ayurvedic and allopathic medicines to help maintain the health and well-being of the pachyderms.The diet is prepared using boiled rice, green grams, ragi, ashtachoornam, Chyavanprash, turmeric powder and iron tonic among other things.

An Expert Committee administers the diet, taking into account the physique of each elephant. Besides vitamin-enriched food, elephants will be given elaborate baths, exercise and adequate rest during the therapy period.The Devaswom has earmarked a sum of Rs 14 lakh for rejuvenation therapy this year. Of the 44 elephants owned by the Guruvayoor Devaswom, 14 are under musth. The rejuvenation therapy for such elephants will be taken up after their musth period is over.