The elephant is undoubtedly the most majestic of all creatures on land. It is not its size that gives it this distinction- but the fact that in spite of its large displacement the elephant has displayed intelligence and emotions throughout Asian history. Ancient Ceylon had a well structured military command in which the elephant mounted troops featured prominently. The great chronicle Mahavamsa tells us about a glorious pachyderm named Kandula. This magnificent animal belonging to the “Saddanthakula” caste of elephants was presented to prince Gemunu on his birthday. The daring, yet, defiant prince soon developed a close bond with the elephant. Over the years, they both trained in combat manoeuvres and became a formidable team on the battlefield. Kandula is credited with storming the southern gate of the fortress at Vijithanagar along with the warriors, Nandimitta and Suranimala. The elephant garnered support in many battles and finally, took centre stage in the encounter in which King Dutugemunu subdued the invading King Elara. Thus, Kandula was bestowed with the honour of being the king’s royal mount- mangalahaththi.
On a Thursday morning I set out with Major Nalin Marasinghe of SLLI to see the present mascot of their regiment. He had mentioned the unique role of this elephant to me on several occasions and I had to see for myself. We entered the massive Army cantonment at Panagoda. After a few formal greetings with the Adjutant, Major Gamage, I was directed to the area where Kandula dwells. The present Kandula is the eighth mascot of the regiment. Since 1961, seven others have stood with dignity and decorum taking part in parades and saluting visiting heads of state. As I approach his stall the young elephant looks at me and then focuses his gaze on some kithul branches and coconut palms. His faithful handler, Corporal Nimal Ratna beckons me to come near Kandula. This is one energetic and joyful animal, who has earned the respect of the entire cantonment. The present mascot was presented into active service on 31 January 2014 when he was 5 years old.
Cpl. Nimal has devoted 21 years of his career in looking after the regiment’s mascots. Kandula began his duty with elegance as he was on parade to welcome the Pope during his visit to Sri Lanka, in 2015. Nimal told me that the elephant had to be taken to Katunayake 10 days in advance so that he could get used to the various noises of aircraft taking off and landing, which would enable him to remain calm on the day of the parade. Corporal Nimal is assisted by 3 other soldiers who take care of this gentle giant.
Kandula begins his day by 7 am and goes for his first bath at 7.30. He then proceeds to pay reverence to the Buddha shrine on site. The regiment’s Duty Officer then feeds Kandula with fruits. Thereafter, in keeping with true military living standards he has a 4 Km walk around the spacious camp, where children wave as he passes by. I am sure the kids enjoy the sight of a jolly elephant walking outside their home every morning. After a time of rest and some food, Nimal takes the mascot for his second bath at noon. Nimal says, “after his bath the elephant is given his favourite treat – a combination of apple, water melon and pineapple.” Kandula is given respect at every function of the Sri Lanka Light Infantry, when he is offered a basket of fruits. It is only after Kandula has his fruits, that the officers have their meals!
Though not bestowed with an Army rank, beloved Kandula when on parade in ceremonial attire displays the insignia of a Sergeant Major, and thus receives a monthly salary of Rs 72,000 for his welfare. He also has the services of veterinarian Dr.Koddikara. In an incident that took place some years ago, another Kandula who was not given his breakfast on time had boldly walked to the office of the Regimental Commandant and stood there to express his annoyance!!
I asked Nimal how many years the elephants serve the Army and he said, when they reach the age of musth they become harder to control and are sent back to Pinnawela, and a new junior animal recruited to stand as the Regimental Mascot. On leaving the regiment the elephant is given a farewell parade. When it was time to leave I fed Kandula with some sugar cane.
He expressed his thanks by offering me a salute. The regiment has a long and distinguished history dating back to April 1881.The present Colonel of the SL Light Infantry Regiment is Major General K.A.D.A. Karunasekera. Thus, the legend of Kandula lives on at Panagoda.