Home / Environment / Mysuru Zoo's Beloved Matriarch Padmavathi Dies at 71
Mysuru Zoo's Beloved Matriarch Padmavathi Dies at 71
14 Aug
Summary
- Padmavathi, Mysuru zoo's oldest elephant, died on August 11, 2025
- She was rescued in 1973 and had been under the zoo's care for 53 years
- Padmavathi was the mother of three elephants, including Gajalakshmi
On August 11, 2025, the Mysuru zoo mourned the loss of its iconic resident, Padmavathi, the oldest elephant at the facility. Padmavathi, who was estimated to be around 71 years and 2 months old, had been under the zoo's care for the past 53 years after being rescued during a Khedda operation in 1973.
Padmavathi was a beloved figure at the zoo, known for her gentle nature and strong maternal instincts. She had given birth to three calves over the years - Gajalakshmi (born in 1979), Komala (born in 1996), and Abhimanyu (born in 2004). Gajalakshmi is currently on display at the Mysuru zoo, while Komala and Abhimanyu reside elsewhere.
Due to Padmavathi's advanced age, the zoo management had shifted her to the Chamundi Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre in Koorgalli four years ago, where she could live in a more spacious and natural setting away from visitors. Though she had been stable until recently, Padmavathi's condition deteriorated on August 10, and she passed away the following day despite the zoo's veterinary team's intensive medical care.
The zoo has expressed deep sorrow over the loss of this iconic elephant, who held a special place in the hearts of the staff, visitors, and wildlife enthusiasts alike for decades.
