Trichy, May 24 -- Akhila, the revered temple elephant of the Thiruvanaikoil Jambukeswarar Akilandeswari Temple in Trichy, celebrated her 23rd birthday on Saturday with traditional rituals and festive cheer, drawing large crowds of devotees.

Born in 2002, Akhila was brought to the temple in 2011 during the tenure of former Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa to assist in temple rituals and ceremonies. Since then, she has been an integral part of the temple's daily activities.

To mark her birthday, the temple authorities organised a special celebration in the temple garden. Akhila was decorated and brought in ceremoniously. Priests performed special poojas for her, and the celebration was attended by mahouts, temple staff, priests, and a large ...