As the world marked International Yoga Day, an extraordinary scene unfolded in the lush wilderness of Gorumara National Park in West Bengal. Against the backdrop of dense sal forests, sprawling grasslands, and the tranquil sounds of the jungle, forest staff rolled out yoga mats beside some of the park’s most disciplined residents: its elephants.
The event, organised by the West Bengal Forest Department, was more than a symbolic celebration. It was a vivid display of harmony between humans and wildlife, where mindfulness met the untamed spirit of nature.
Also read: CM Yogi Leads International Yoga Day Celebrations in Gorakhpur
Where Yoga Meets Conservation
Located in the biodiversity-rich Dooars region, Gorumara National Park is known for its thriving populations of one-horned rhinos, gaurs, leopards, and elephants. But on this occasion, it was the elephants—trained Kunki elephants—that took centre stage.
These elephants are not ordinary wild jumbos. They are an integral part of forest operations, playing a crucial role in patrolling, anti-poaching drives, and rescue missions. Their calm temperament and ability to respond to commands make them indispensable to conservation efforts.
According to Raju Das, a 1996-batch Indian Forest Service officer currently serving as Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (APCCF) and Chief Conservator of Forests, Monitoring & Evaluation, the scale of these operations is significant.
“We have 62 Kunki elephants in Jaldapara and 32 Kunki elephants in Gorumara National Parks,” he shared in an exclusive conversation with Indian Masterminds.
The Silent Protectors of the Forest
Raju Das explained that these elephants are specially trained for forest protection.
“They are trained forest patrolling elephants, used for intensive forest protection works. The mahouts usually make them listen to basic commands,” he said.
From navigating dense forest trails to helping locate poachers or injured animals, Kunki elephants act as silent protectors of the wild. Their bond with their mahouts is built over years of trust, discipline, and companionship.
That same bond was visible during the yoga session, as mahouts performed stretches while their elephants stood nearby—calm, observant, and almost participating in the moment.
A Symbol of Balance
The Yoga Day event carried a deeper message. Yoga is often described as the union of mind, body, and spirit. In Gorumara, it became a symbol of another kind of union—the delicate balance between human beings and the natural world.
In an age where forests face increasing pressure from encroachment and climate change, such moments remind us that conservation is not just about protecting wildlife; it is about coexisting with it.
And in Gorumara, amidst the wild beauty of the Dooars, yoga with elephants became a powerful testament to that balance. Check out the beautiful photos here-
