Dec. 08, 2022|India|40 Min.|PG
Genre: Documentary;South;Indian
Description: “The Elephant Whisperers” is a 2022 documentary that follows the heartfelt story of an indigenous couple, Bomman and Belli, who are tasked with caring for an orphaned baby elephant named Raghu. Their dedication ensures the fragile and injured calf survives and grows into a healthy young elephant. The film beautifully captures the deep bond that forms between the couple and Raghu, set against the stunning backdrop of Mudumalai National Park in Tamil Nadu, India. It not only highlights the natural beauty of the region but also explores the harmonious coexistence of tribal communities with nature.
Beyond the touching story of human-animal connection, the documentary sheds light on Indian traditions and the importance of environmental conservation. Director Kartiki Gonsalves spent five years documenting this unique human-elephant family from the Kattunayakan tribe. She shared, “I met Raghu when he was just three months old and spent about a year and a half with him before this project turned into a documentary.” During filming, her team also captured glimpses of other wildlife in the reserve, including leopards, tigers, and monkeys. This film is a celebration of life, culture, and the profound relationships that connect humans and nature.
Cast director: Kartiki Gonsalves
Cast actor: Bomman, Bellie
Original name: The Elephant Whisperers