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Elephant washing in Sri Lanka A traditional elephant handler known as a mahout washes an elephant near Colombo, Sri Lanka on February 11, 2025. In Sri Lanka, mahouts have a deep bond with their elephants, built through daily care, feeding, and bathing, often in rivers near Colombo. Bathing is essential for hygiene and strengthens trust between the mahout and the elephant. Historically, elephants have played vital roles in religious ceremonies, logging, and tourism, but concerns over their welfare have grown, with calls for ethical treatment and improved conditions. This tradition represents both Sri Lankas cultural heritage and the ongoing discussions on responsible elephant care and tourism. Colombo Sri Lanka Copyright: xMatrixxImagesx/xAkilaxJayawardenax