Chillikomban, the beloved wild elephant from Nelliampathy in Palakkad, has drowned in the Aliyar Dam in Tamil Nadu. The Tamil Nadu Forest Department confirmed that the elephant was swept away by a strong current while drinking water from the Kandoor canal of the dam.
The body of the elephant was recovered on Sunday from the Thirumoorthy dam area. Chillikomban was well-known for its distinctive tusks and gentle nature, often venturing into inhabited areas but never attacking anyone. The elephant had gained significant popularity on social media as the “guardian of Nelliampathy.”
Forest officials confirmed the identity of the elephant through its unique tusk shape. The tragic incident has saddened wildlife enthusiasts and locals who regarded Chillikomban as a gentle giant of the region.