Sri Lanka is famous for its vibrant cultural festivals like the Kandy Esala Perahera, where majestic elephants adorned in traditional attire march through the streets. While these events are breathtaking, there’s a rare but serious risk: elephants going on a rampage due to stress, loud noises, or provocation.

Knowing how to react in such situations can save lives. This article will guide you on what to do if an elephant suddenly becomes aggressive, including safety tips and preventive measures — especially relevant for festivalgoers, photographers, and tourists.

Why Do Elephants Go on a Rampage?

Elephants used in Peraheras are generally well-trained and accompanied by mahouts (handlers), but they are still wild animals with immense strength and unpredictability.

Common triggers include:

• Loud noises (firecrackers, drums, shouting)
• Flash photography or camera flashes
• Sudden movements or crowds getting too close
• Heat and exhaustion
• Poor health or mistreatment
• Separation from other elephants

What Should You Do If an Elephant Goes on a Rampage?

1. Stay Calm — Don’t Panic

Panic causes chaos. Stay as calm as possible and avoid screaming or running immediately unless you’re in direct danger. Controlled actions are more likely to keep you safe.

2. Immediately Move Away — But NOT in a Straight Line

Elephants can run up to 40 km/h and may chase. If you’re close, move away at an angle (zigzag or diagonally) rather than a straight line. Elephants find it harder to chase in zig-zag paths due to their size and momentum.

3. Take Shelter

If possible, get behind large obstacles:

• Trees
• Walls
• Vehicles
• Solid structures

Never hide behind a bush or small pole. Elephants can easily knock over weak objects.

4. Avoid Getting Between the Elephant and the Crowd

If the elephant is running toward a crowd, don’t run in between to cross paths. Move away from its line of sight, preferably sideways, and allow the animal to pass.

5. Do Not Try to Take Photos or Videos

This is not the time to capture a viral video. Many injuries during rampages happen because people are too busy recording rather than escaping.

6. Listen to Authorities and Mahouts

Always follow the directions of:

• Police officers
• Event security
• Mahouts (handlers)

They are trained to handle such situations and may give evacuation instructions or open emergency routes.

Preventive Safety Tips at Peraheras

If you’re attending a festival with elephants:

• Avoid using flash photography
• Hold children close at all times
• Keep a respectful distance from elephants
• Locate emergency exits and safe zones before the parade starts
• Familiarize yourself with the area, especially small streets for quick escape
• Stay hydrated, as fainting in crowded areas can make you vulnerable
• Stay alert during firecrackers, as these often startle animals