Two beloved elephants at Wildlife SOS’s Elephant Conservation and Care Centre (ECCC) in Mathura mark a major milestone this month, 15 years of freedom after being rescued from lives of suffering. Maya, once a performing elephant forced to entertain crowds in a circus, and Bijli, formerly used for begging on Agra’s streets until a tragic accident led to her rescue, were brought to the centre in 2010. Today, both elephants stand as living testaments to recovery, compassion, and the transformative power of regular, tailored medical interventions and care.
Rescued from years of abuse, Maya and Bijli arrived at ECCC bearing deep emotional and physical scars. Over the past decade and a half, the two female elephants have flourished under expert veterinary supervision and caregiving, rediscovering trust, friendship, and the simple joys of an elephant’s natural life. Maya has formed a steady bond with fellow resident Phoolkali, while Bijli shares a close companionship with Chanchal and Laxmi, spending her days foraging, dust-bathing, and enjoying long walks.
Maya, aged 51, and Bijli, aged 45, continue to thrive under Wildlife SOS’s dedicated care despite their health challenges. Maya, with impaired vision, and Bijli, with a deformed hind leg from an old fracture, receive regular treatment, nutrition, and care. Both have shown remarkable resilience and steady recovery through expert medical attention and compassionate rehabilitation. To commemorate their 15th rescue anniversary, the Wildlife SOS team organised a grand fruit feast, featuring a colourful spread of sugarcane, watermelon, papaya, banana, beetroot, and cauliflower, celebrating their remarkable journey from pain to peace.
Kartick Satyanarayan, Co-founder & CEO, Wildlife SOS, said, “Maya and Bijli’s journey represents everything Wildlife SOS stands for, transforming cruelty into care. Their lives remind us that every rescue is not just a story of survival, but of hope restored.”
Geeta Seshamani, Co-founder & Secretary, Wildlife SOS, shared, “Fifteen years ago, Maya and Bijli knew only hardship. Today, they live surrounded by kindness, companionship, and security. Their transformation inspires us to keep fighting for every elephant still waiting for this chance.”
Dr. S Ilayaraja, Deputy Director- Veterinary Services, Wildlife SOS, stated, “Caring for elephants with chronic injuries and trauma is a long-term commitment. Seeing Maya and Bijli healthy and content after 15 years of dedicated rehabilitation shows what proper veterinary care can achieve.”
