Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa has paid an emotional tribute to the majestic elephant, describing its death as a final farewell by the forest itself.“I think the forest itself embraced the king of the great forest for the last time,” he said.

Reflecting on the place of elephants in Sri Lanka’s history and culture, Rajapaksa said the animals had been closely associated with the country’s historical records, Buddhist traditions, royal ceremonies and religious processions.He noted that elephants, which symbolized royal power and dignity, had also held an important place in Buddhism and remained a living symbol of the country’s history, religion, art and folk traditions.Describing the elephant as a creature worthy of honour and protection, he highlighted the qualities of strength, patience and kindness associated with the animal.

“Good journey to the great elephant of our elephant generation that shaped the motherland,” he said in his tribute.