By M.T. Yogesh Kumar
Two Mahouts, one each from Mysuru and Kodagu, have left an ever-lasting impression in Indonesia with their elephantine knowledge about elephants, their behaviour and overall well-being. The Mahouts were sent by the Forest Department to Indonesia after being requested by Indonesian Mahout Communications Forum, FOKMAS. FOKMAS bore their air fare and other expenses. It was first for the Forest Department that their two Mahouts J.N. Vasantha of Mathigodu Elephant Camp (Hunsur division) and Nayaz Pasha from Dubare elephant camp (Madikeri division) were invited for the workshop that was held at Lampung province in Sumatra, Indonesia from May 11 to 19 this year. This year’s Indonesian Mahout Workshop was supported by Asian Elephant Support (AES) and it was unique as it brought together two groups of Mahouts from different countries that are supported by AES. The Mahouts were guided by Dr. Mamatha Sathyanarayana, Assistant Professor, De Paul International School, Mysuru. AES recognised Mamatha’s tireless work to provide educational opportunities for Mahouts and had requested the Karnataka Forest Department to send its Mahouts to attend the workshop. It was a wonderful opportunity for the two cultures to share information and their experiences on elephant care.
