Elephant causes panic after running amok at south Indian festival

Elephant causes panic after running amok at south Indian festival

Panic broke out at a temple in south India after a tame elephant ran amok during a festival procession.

The incident took place at Bhavaneeswaram temple in Ernakulam district, Kerala on March 10.

Footage shows many elephants arrayed for the festival under a canopy, until one animal proceeded to break free and spook the others standing nearby as well as the crowd of onlookers.

One of the startled elephants proceeded to run off while its handlers and riders attempted to bring it under control, with some even trying to pull it back by its tail.

According to the reports, the elephant was brought under control and restrained after a race.

However, no casualties were reported after the incident.

The use of tame elephants in India is considered highly controversial due to reports of animal abuse and overwork for temple elephants.