Lao Elephant Festival 2008
The second edition of the Lao Elephant Festival took place in Paklay District, Sayaboury Province, on February 15th, 16th, and 17th. Organizers of the festival wanted to raise awareness of the plight of the Asian elephant. The Asian elephant plays a prominent role in a cultural and natural heritage of Laos. It is estimated the Asian elephant could become extinct in Laos in less than 50 years if current conditions are not changed. The festival aimed to promote the protection of Asian elephant.
Over 70 elephants took part in a majestic parade. The three days event included numerous activities like a traditional Baci ceremony, fruits and flowers offering, elephant training and mahout-ship demonstration, elephant race, elephant rides, several exhibitions of photos and contemporary art from Laos and Europe and much more.
Video clips of the Laos Elephant Festival 2008.
I love elephants, this reminded me of the time when I was little living in Thailand, on Children’s day we had several elephants at the school, and I played soccer with the baby elephant. I also sat on the elephant’s trunk, and some would lie on the floor and let the elephant crossed over them for good luck, I think. Just the thought of it stepping on me was frightening enough; if I had to lie there, I’m not sure what I’d do.
We need to step up and help the people of Laos to save what’s left of Lane Xang”s legion.
good job~ sayaboury