| 'Kandula', named after the elephant who holds a unique position in Sri Lanka's history, the heroic elephant that went to war with King Dutugemunu, was honoured on April 21 for the service provided by him and his six predecessors to the Sri Lanka Light Infantry Regiment which adopted them as the mascot.
Kandula the regimental mascot is seen accepting the salute of the Army with dignity and honour on behalf of the fifty years of service provided by seven members of the Kandula clan. Representing courage, skill and loyalty, Kandula VII inspected the guard of honour in keeping with tradition. Afterwards, Kandula VII happily took part in the tea party with other Army officials.
The Light Infantry Regiment has had an elephant as its mascot since 1961 and the present Kandula is the seventh elephant being adopted by the Infantry. This elephant is always named Kandula as a tribute to the elephant who marched into many a battle along with King Dutugemunu.
Major General R.M.D. Ratnayake Chief of Staff, Sri Lanka Army said that Kandula's service to the Infantry as the mascot is of immense importance.
Explaining the history of Kandula he said that he was adopted in 2009 from the Pinnawala elephant sanctuary. "When an elephant reaches maturity, it can become difficult to control. The regiment has to periodically retire its mascot and train a new calf to take its place," he added.
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