Gajarajan Guruvayur Kesavan

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Gajarajan Guruvayur Kesavan



                                   

Guruvayur Kesavan is one of the majestic elephants who served Guruvayurappan for 54 years. Valiya Raja of Nilambur once prayed to the Shri Krishna to save his family and property from the enemies attack and promised to offer an elephant. His wish was fulfilled and he offered an elephant which later became the famous Guruvayur Kesavan. Kesavan was 10 years old when he came. Anayottam which will be held to decide who will take Thidambu of Krishna is won by Kesavan for many years. In 1973, Kesavan was honored with title "GAJARAJAN" (king of elephants ).

On December 2, 1976 it was Guruvayur Ekadashi. When Thidambu was placed on his back, Kesavan began shivering while walking, so Thidambu was placed on another elephant. Kesavan did a pradakshina around the Temple and was taken to the compound where he lay with his trunk stretched towards Krishna and breathed his last, 54 years after serving faithfully. His tusks can still be seen adorning the entrance of the Guruvayur temple. The unique tale of Kesavan shows that even in death, he showed true Bhakthi. A statue of about 12 feet is made to show respect to Kesavan. Kesavan still continues to live in the hearts and memories of people who speak of him fondly.













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