Elephant on escalator at Bengaluru metro station? Here’s what it means

'The Great Elephant Migration' is aimed at spreading the message of coexistence. (Image: coexistenceconsortium.com)

All through this month, Bengaluru witnessed “elephants” all around the city, including metro stations. One recent instance showed an “elephant” taking the escalator, leaving Konankunte Metro station but this phenomenon is not what you think.

A global campaign called "The Great Elephant Migration" is installing over a hundred life-sized elephant sculptures in cities around the world, carrying with them a powerful message of coexistence between humans and nature. The installation, seen at the metro station in Bengaluru, was being transported to its final spot when the video was shot.

Each sculpture is a crafted replica of real wild elephants from the forests of South India, brought to life by the hands of indigenous artisans using Lantana camara, an invasive weed that plagues many of the world's forests.

This ambitious project, a collaboration between The Real Elephant Collective and the international NGO Elephant Family, aims not only to raise awareness about the importance of nature conservation but also to support initiatives promoting peaceful coexistence between humans and the Asian elephant, a species on the brink of extinction in the wild.

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The choice of Lantana camara as the material for these sculptures is strategic and symbolic. By clearing the forests of this harmful weed, the project aids in environmental conservation while providing livelihoods for the Adivasi communities involved in the crafting process.

Over 150 artisans from the Soliga, Bettakurumba, and Kattunayakan tribes, hailing from regions in South India known for their proximity to elephant habitats, have lent their traditional knowledge, enthusiasm, and skill to create these pieces.

These artisans live close to elephants in areas like Mudumalai, BR Hills, MM Hills, and Wayanad.

Proceeds from the sale of these sculptures will fund various coexistence initiatives across India, ensuring that the message of the campaign translates into tangible benefits for both the elephants and the communities that share their habitat.