Do You Know Madhya Pradesh’s Elephant Heritage Dates Back Millions of Years? What Project ‘Gajlok’ Revealed? Programme Held in Bhopal on World Elephant Day 2026
Fossils dating back millions of years, including those preserved in museums, indicate that Madhya Pradesh has been one of the world’s oldest elephant regions. India is home to 60% of the global population of Asian elephants. In this context, Madhya Pradesh holds a significant place in global elephant conservation.
This information was shared at a programme organised by INTACH Bhopal Chapter at the State Archaeological Museum premises in Bhopal on World Elephant Day 2026.
Elephants have held a distinctive place in Madhya Pradesh
Addressing the programme, Padma Shri Dr. Narayan Vyas said elephants have held a distinctive place in Madhya Pradesh since ancient times. They have been continuously depicted in the State’s art, culture and literature. He said the depiction of elephants in Madhya Pradesh’s rock paintings dating back thousands of years reflects their deep-rooted connection with the region’s social fabric.
Project Gajlok has special significance for Madhya Pradesh
INTACH Bhopal Chapter Convener Madan Mohan Upadhyay said Project Gajlok has special significance for Madhya Pradesh. Over the past year, INTACH has been documenting elephant-related stories and traditions from across the State, including their role in warfare and their depiction in art, culture and folk traditions.
Upadhyay said the project is being supported by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, with INTACH serving as the institutional partner.
During the programme, Padma Shri Dr. Vyas released the film “Gajlok – Wild, Sacred, Eternal.” The documentary aims to raise greater public awareness about elephants and their conservation. It also highlights the natural range of Indian elephants.
Gautam, the elephant of Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, holds a special place
The special place of elephants in temples of Kerala and South India is well known. In Madhya Pradesh, Gautam, the elephant of Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, holds a special place. Elephants also formed an important part of the royal symbols of the Gond kingdoms of Garha-Mandla and Ginnorgarh. The elephant symbol was also featured on the currency of Dhar State.
Sanchi features exceptionally beautiful depictions of elephants
Similarly, the world-famous UNESCO heritage site of Sanchi features exceptionally beautiful depictions of elephants, rarely seen at any other site in the world. Elephants are also depicted as Gaja Lakshmi. Lord Ganesha has been revered as a deity since time immemorial.
INTACH Bhopal has appealed to people to share any stories, accounts or information related to elephants so that these can be documented and incorporated into the national archive. Wildlife enthusiasts and students attended the programme.