The largest population of elephants in Asia is to be found on this island lying in the Indian ocean. According to the latest census, there are between 6,000 and 7,500 elephants living alongside the Sri Lankan people. It could even be said that the elephant has become a true symbol of the country given its presence everywhere. Here are a few unique ways to discover it. 

A special place in spirituality

The elephant has a strong presence in both of the major religions of Sri Lanka. Because he lends his face to the god Ganesh, the giant enjoys special popularity in Hinduism. This deity, who rules over wisdom and knowledge, is one of the most important in the Hindu pantheon. Half-child, half-elephant, the name often arises when talking about ways of breaking down obstacles which may stand between believers and their goals. A veneration shared with Buddhists whose mythology is brimming full of other stories and legends about the pachyderm.

It is not uncommon to come across representations of the future Buddha, riding on the back of this impressive creature. In this type of illustration, the elephant represents knowledge and its ability to guide us towards a sense of greater enlightenment. An allegory that has a prominent place in the carvings of the famous 'Temple of the Tooth' in Kandy. During the Full Moon Festival, or Perahera festivities, elephants lead the procession in honour of the sacred relic. Jugglers, dancers and acrobats escort the animals, specially dressed for the occasion. A colourful show to experience Buddhist fervour. 

The beloved subject of craftsmen 

Prolific in the surrounding nature and a star of local mythology, the elephant has naturally become a model of choice for Sri Lankan craftsmen. Just push open the door of any shop and you will not fail to see it across the many shelves. The sculptors compete with each other to bring it to life through their wooden sculptures. After selecting the right piece, they first cut a rough shape before adding more detail. Little by little, with the help of simple tools, the silhouette of the elephant appears. Once sanded and polished, the statue is then ready to beguile its new owner.  A task requiring a high level of precision, often calling of many hours of work for the most impressive figurines. The Galle region has made ebony elephant sculptures its speciality. A rare wood for particularly precious pieces.

When it comes to patience and precision, batik is a serious competitor to wood statuettes. This technique of printing on fabric requires wax, dye and, above all, time. At the rate of one colour per dip, the craftsman slowly draws the selected pattern. Amongst the range of all possible representations, the country's totem animal is obviously among the most frequently painted. As clothing fabric, on wall hangings or to decorate objects, the elephant is everywhere. The more nuanced the piece, the longer it takes to create. Whether in fabric or wood, this majestic animal has become a charming souvenir to adorn many a home.