Elephants are the center of many circus acts and a main attraction at most zoos. They are known for their friendly personalities, and many of us have grown up in awe at the majestic creatures. Unfortunately, they aren’t always treated well. In India, they are part of the tourism industry and often the target of abuse. One such elephant is Raju, who was the target of abuse for five decades before finally being freed. Check out his story below. It will warm your heart to know he’s finally happy after so many years of mistreatment.

The Captured Giant

Raju was stolen from his family and taken into the tourism industry when he was just a baby. Poaching is a common practice in India and that’s how many elephants end up in captivity. Such was the case of Raju. Raju’s owner was drug addicted and abusive to his wife, children, and the animals that he used for work. Raju would suffer at his hands for over 50 years.

What happened to Raju that put his life at risk? Keep reading to find out.

Raju’s Abuse Puts His Life At Risk

Raju was forced to walk miles each day leaving the pads on his feet worn and swollen. He also had spiked shackles around his ankles that poked into his legs and made him bleed with each step. He was never fed a proper diet and was literally starving every day. These conditions combined made him susceptible to infection. If Raju had become ill, he would have likely been left to die.

Did Raju ever attempt to hurt his abusive captors? See below to find out the surprising answer.

Raju Was a Gentle Soul

Although Raju was big enough to hurt his captors, he never did. His body was covered in scars, bruises, and cuts; proof of the horrible abuse he had suffered. The SOS Wildlife organization, based out of London, stepped in to save Raju. They said he was in such poor condition that he wouldn’t have made it much longer in the hands of his captor.

What would make Raju’s rescue so hard for the rescue team? Keep reading to find out.

Not an Easy Rescue

The organization new it wouldn’t be easy rescuing Raju. They knew his captor wouldn’t let them have Raju without a fight. It took two rescue attempts before they were finally able to free Raju and take him out of the village that he had lived most of his life. Elephants are known for their human like emotions, and Raju was no exception. He had tears streaming down his face as his rescuers freed him.

How long did it take the team to free Raju from the shackles around his legs? See below for the sad answer.

Finally Free

When Raju arrived at the elephant sanctuary, it was as if the other elephants knew they had a new friend. They gathered to meet the new addition to their family. Raju was attended to by a team of veterinarians who took 45 minutes to release the chains from around his ankles. It would only be a few months before Raju was healed and running happily with the other elephants.

How has Raju adapted to his new life? Keep reading for Raju’s happily ever after.

Raju’s Happily Ever After

Raju is now 54 years old. He’s healthy and happy and certainly enjoys his new found freedom. He loves splashing in the pool, playing with toys, and strolling with his elephant family; all 14 of them. Even with all the hardships Raju has endured, he is still a friendly, gentle giant who seems to hold no grudges against his past.