Concluding Remarks

In this chapter we have not only focused on the issue of capturing the elephants but various other issues associated with the animal pre and post capture have also received due attention. In early Indian texts on elephants seem to codify this knowledge quite systematically. Here we have described on the basis of chosen texts how systematic preparations were made for capturing elephants. We have also discussed the psyche of the early Indians towards the practice of cruelty in the process of capture. Such practices which include physical torture or damage have been mentioned as not recommended by the authors distinctly. Besides this we have also discussed food and diet contextually as it is a main issue post captivity which the capturers faced. The consciousness of the early Indians towards the diet and creation of a comfortable and proper abode for the elephants have been discussed at length. The creation of hastivanas or the elephant reserves have also been taken into consideration. Post captivity the elephants were divided into groups on the basis of their qualities and signs which have been discussed here for the first time. After they were classified they underwent a process of training for which they have been selected. Those which were not selected at all were set free.

Thus we have also discussed the several parameters which decided the elephant’s category or quality, its worth and probably also its value. The process of training also included details on how to mount an elephant and its nuances have been dealt in detail. In the process of capturing some elephants also got injured or required medical attention hence we have also discussed medical treatment to some extent here in this chapter.