Meta Description: The Incredible Sadhu Story unfolds in Kerala’s Kottayam, where Vantara’s rescue team saved a beloved elephant from a deadly condition called colon impaction. Discover how advanced veterinary science and compassion combined to revive the legendary jumbo.
Introduction
In India, elephants are not just animals; they are living heritage, deeply woven into the country’s culture, religion, and tradition. Yet, these gentle giants often face life-threatening medical challenges in captivity. One such gripping tale comes from Kerala’s Kottayam district, where a 55-year-old elephant named Puthuppally Sadhu was on the brink of death.
For over a month, Sadhu battled colon impaction — a dangerous condition that prevents elephants from eating, drinking, or passing waste. His chances of survival were as low as 50%. Despite local veterinarians’ best efforts, the situation grew critical. At that moment, Vantara — India’s largest wildlife rescue and rehabilitation centre in Jamnagar, Gujarat — stepped in with its Rapid Response Team.
What followed was nothing short of miraculous. In just ten days, Sadhu, once hovering between life and death, was back on his feet. This is “The Incredible Sadhu Story”, a testament to science, dedication, and the sacred bond between humans and elephants.
Who Is Puthuppally Sadhu?
Sadhu is no ordinary elephant. Fondly known as ‘Aranya Prajapati’ for his majestic presence, he is an iconic domesticated jumbo in southern India.
- He gained public attention last year after fleeing into the forest to avoid a clash with another elephant on the set of a Vijay Devarakonda film.
- At 55 years old, Sadhu represents Kerala’s age-old tradition of domesticating elephants, often seen in festivals, cultural ceremonies, and religious events.
- His owner, Pothan Varghese of Pappalaparambil in Kottayam, has cared for him for decades.
But even legends fall sick, and in July 2025, Sadhu’s health took a dangerous turn.
The Silent Killer: Colon Impaction
On July 27, Sadhu stopped eating. Soon, he refused food altogether and survived only on intravenous (IV) fluids. The diagnosis was colon impaction, locally called Irandakkettu.
This condition occurs when fibrous food blocks the intestine, preventing digestion and bowel movement. In elephants:
- The colon plays a crucial role in reabsorbing water and digesting fibre.
- If blocked, faecal masses accumulate, leading to dehydration, internal rupture, and even death within hours.
- Traditional treatment involves hydration through IVs, antibiotics (if infection is present), and supplements like protein and calcium.
Sadly, colon impaction has claimed many beloved Kerala elephants in recent years, including Guruvayur Gopikannan, Omallur Manikandan, and Kiran Narayankutty.
Would Sadhu meet the same fate?
Vantara Steps In
Sadhu’s owner had heard about Vantara’s free rescue initiative, a first-of-its-kind service in India. Run by Reliance Industries and Reliance Foundation, Vantara has quickly become a global leader in wildlife rehabilitation, advanced veterinary science, and rescue operations.
When Kerala’s Forest Department reached out, Vantara dispatched its Rapid Response Team, led by Dr. Vaishakh Vishwam.
The team arrived in Kottayam on August 15 and camped beside the elephant. Within hours, they diagnosed advanced colon impaction. Over the next nine days, they worked tirelessly, using innovative methods to save Sadhu.
The Medical Miracle
Between August 15–24, the Vantara team performed one of the most complex elephant medical interventions ever attempted in India.
Key Highlights of the Treatment:
- 490 litres of fluids (medicines, vitamins, minerals) were administered.
- Rectal rehydration therapy, rarely used in India, was applied — delivering 30–40 litres of water within minutes.
- A portable video endoscope was used to locate the blockage.
- 32 kilograms of faecal lumps were manually removed with the help of mahouts.
- Massage therapy with castor oil and sandbags was used to stimulate nerve activity.
- Oral sodium bicarbonate was administered to balance acidity and restore appetite.
By the ninth day, Sadhu passed the deadly obstruction, drank water again, and started eating.
“It was a race against time,” said Dr. Vaishakh, who hails from Kerala himself. “We were not just treating an elephant, but saving a cultural icon.”
Why Kerala Elephants Suffer More
Kerala has one of the highest populations of domesticated elephants. But their diet and lifestyle often put them at risk.
- Elephants are frequently fed palmyra leafstalk, which is rich in fibre but hard to digest.
- Long-distance travel, festival duties, and irregular feeding schedules worsen digestive problems.
- Drinking water immediately after labour can also trigger impaction.
“Owners now know excessive palmyra is dangerous. We are switching to grass-based diets,” said P. S. Raveendranath, General Secretary of the Kerala Elephant Owners Federation.
Advanced Equipment at Vantara
One of the reasons for Sadhu’s survival was Vantara’s access to cutting-edge veterinary equipment rarely available elsewhere in India.
- Customised 3.5-metre endoscopy device from Karl Storz (Germany).
- Portable X-ray, ultrasound, and thermal imaging systems.
- Specialised IV and hydration equipment designed for mega herbivores.
“In Kerala, our vets are like boxers without gloves,” Raveendranath admitted. “They have immense skill but lack the right technology. Vantara bridges this gap.”
The Incredible Sadhu Story: A Cultural Victory
Sadhu’s survival was not just a medical success; it was a cultural triumph. Elephants are revered in Kerala as symbols of prosperity, tradition, and divine blessing. Losing Sadhu would have been heartbreaking for his community.
“On the third day, when the bulge on his abdomen disappeared, we knew we had hope,” recalled Dr. Vaishakh. “By the ninth day, when Sadhu started feeding again, it felt like we had witnessed a rebirth.”
Preventing Future Tragedies
Vantara’s mission is not limited to rescues. The centre also spreads awareness on elephant husbandry, diet, and preventive care.
Dr. Vaishakh stresses three key practices:
- Avoid excessive fibrous foods like palmyra.
- Maintain hydration at all times.
- Provide rest after physical labour before feeding or watering.
“If cared for properly, domesticated elephants in Kerala can live up to 90 years,” he said.
Also read: South African Website Praises Vantara: Building Global Bridges for Wildlife Conservation
How Can Others Seek Help?
Any elephant or wildlife emergency can be referred to Vantara by state authorities.
- Requests must come via the Chief Wildlife Warden or Forest Department.
- Once approved, Vantara deploys a team with the required medical, scientific, and technical resources.
- Services are completely free of cost.
In Sadhu’s case, it was Assistant Conservator of Forests K.B. Subhash who officially presented the case to Vantara.
Also read: Vantara: A Global Wildlife Sanctuary Admired by the UAE
Conclusion
The Incredible Sadhu Story is more than just the survival of one elephant. It represents the power of collaboration between local caretakers, forest officials, and advanced institutions like Vantara.
Sadhu, once on the edge of death, now stands tall again in Kerala’s Vakathanam, a living reminder that science, compassion, and tradition can coexist beautifully.
As India continues to balance modernity with heritage, success stories like this prove that with the right care and technology, even giants can be saved.
