Sri Lanka’s Legendary Tuskers: A Look at their Big Story

Discover Sri Lanka’s most famous tuskers — from Maligawa Raja to Nadungamuwa Raja — whose grace and devotion made them national treasures.

When you complete reading this article, the elephant lovers will know the stories of some of Sri Lanka’s Star Tuskers, their engagement with the culture and their deep bond with the ‘hearts and minds’ of the public.

The Majestic Role of Tuskers in Sri Lankan Culture

In Sri Lanka, the elephant is far more than a creature of strength — it is a living symbol of faith, wisdom, and national pride.

Among them, the tuskers — male elephants with magnificent ivory tusks — hold a sacred place in the island’s heritage.

They have long been an integral part of Sri Lanka’s religious pageantry, most notably the Kandy Esala Perahera, one of the world’s grandest Buddhist processions.

The history of this possession the involvement of the tuskers in the festivals runs back to many centuries. A legacy, which holds a maginificent place, not only in Sri Lanka but in the world history.

Here, the chosen tusker carries the Sacred Tooth Relic Casket, representing dignity, devotion, and serenity.

Over the decades, several elephants have risen to legendary status — the Star Tuskers of Sri Lanka — admired for their beauty, discipline, and service to culture.

🐘 Maligawa Raja – The National Treasure

Among all tuskers, Maligawa Raja stands unmatched in reverence and legacy.

Born in Eravur, Raja was gifted to the Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa) and served for over 50 years.

His calm nature and regal presence made him the ideal carrier of the Sacred Tooth Relic Casket in the Esala Perahera. Millions witnessed how diligently he delivered his duty.

Raja’s passing in 1988 marked the end of an era.

In recognition of his unparalleled service, the Government of Sri Lanka declared him a National Treasure.

The ‘Tuskers’ preserved remains can still be seen at the Raja Museum in Kandy — a symbol of eternal devotion and dignity.

Nadungamuwa Raja – The People’s Tusker

If Maligawa Raja was the royal icon, Nadungamuwa Raja was the people’s tusker.

Based in Nadungamuwa, near Kegalle, he became famous for walking hundreds of kilometers to Kandy every year to carry the Sacred Tooth Relic Casket.

His journeys drew massive crowds and were accompanied by a military convoy, symbolizing both reverence and protection.

When he walks, the traffic slows down, people stands and worship, and even tries to feed him.

Upon his passing in March 2022, Sri Lanka mourned deeply.

The government held a state funeral, and Nadungamuwa Raja was posthumously recognized as a national treasure — a rare honor for an animal.

He remains a symbol of loyalty, faith, and national pride.

Indi Raja – The Guardian of the Dalada Maligawa

Among the living legends, Indi Raja, the resident tusker of the Temple of the Tooth, continues the proud legacy.

Known for his composure and grandeur, Indi Raja has carried the Sacred Tooth Relic Casket in numerous Kandy Esala Peraheras, earning admiration from thousands of devotees.

With his calm demeanor and graceful poise, Indi Raja embodies the discipline and majesty expected of a temple tusker, continuing the sacred duty of his predecessors.

Millangoda Raja – The Long-Tusked Legend

Millangoda Raja, from Balangoda, was renowned for possessing the longest tusks ever recorded in Asia — nearly 7.5 feet each.

His remarkable appearance and gentle temperament made him a showpiece of perfection in Sri Lankan pageantry.

He participated in countless cultural processions, representing the ideal harmony between nature’s beauty and human admiration.

Even after his passing, Millangoda Raja remains one of the most awe-inspiring elephants ever to walk Sri Lankan soil.

Dalaputtuwa – The Wise Elder of the Wild

Not all famous tuskers served in processions.

Dalaputtuwa, a wild tusker from the Kalawewa sanctuary, was beloved for his calm and wise demeanor.

Believed to have lived for over 70 years, he symbolized the peaceful coexistence between humans and wildlife.

His presence in the wild reminded Sri Lankans that the nation’s elephant heritage extends far beyond temple walls — into forests, lakes, and sanctuaries where these gentle giants still roam free.

Cultural Icons and Conservation Ambassadors

Sri Lanka’s star tuskers are more than ceremonial figures — they are ambassadors of conservation. As elephant habitats shrink and conflicts rise, protecting these creatures is vital to preserving the nation’s spiritual and ecological identity.

The Legacy Lives On

From Maligawa Raja’s timeless grace to Nadungamuwa Raja’s faithful journeys, these tuskers have carved their place in the nation’s story. Their images adorn murals, stamps, and hearts — eternal symbols of devotion and strength.