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Summary:

Guruvayur Kesavan, a legendary elephant of the Guruvayur Devaswom in Kerala, India, was honored on his memorial day. A commemorative procession featuring several elephants, including Indrasen who symbolically bowed before Kesavan’s statue, marked the event. The occasion also saw the unveiling of a renovated statue of Kesavan, addressing previous criticisms regarding its accuracy. The statue had been almost fully rebuild after previous attempts at renovation were not considered successful in accurately capturing Kesavan’s likeness. The event took place amidst Guruvayur Ekadasi celebrations, including musical performances.

News Article:

Legendary Elephant Guruvayur Kesavan Honored on Memorial Day, Renovated Statue Unveiled

Thrissur, India – November 30, 2025 – Guruvayur Kesavan, the iconic elephant of the Guruvayur Devaswom, was celebrated on his memorial day with a moving tribute. Devotees and elephant enthusiasts gathered at the Sreevalsam Guest House to pay their respects to the legendary tusker.

A ceremonial procession, led by the majestic elephant Indrasen carrying Kesavan’s portrait, marked the occasion. Accompanied by five other Devaswom elephants, the procession circled the temple before reaching Kesavan’s statue, where Indrasen bowed in a symbolic gesture of reverence.

The day also marked the formal dedication of Kesavan’s renovated statue. Sculptor Elavally Nandan spent more than three months rebuilding the statue, addressing long-standing criticisms about the accuracy of the previous versions. The previous statue, installed in 1982, had faced criticism since its instillation for not accurately capturing Kesavan’s likeness.

Guruvayur Devaswom chairman V.K. Vijayan added to the day’s tributes by laying a floral wreath at the statue.

Kesavan, who passed away in 1976, remains a revered figure in Kerala’s cultural heritage. The memorial day events coincided with the ongoing Guruvayur Ekadasi celebrations, which included performances of Pancharatna Keerthanalapanam.

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