Egg offering to Luang Por Sothon

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Transcript

00:00Why are elephants considered to be Thailand's national animal?

00:03Well, here are some reasons why.

00:05Royal symbols.

00:07Elephants have long been tied to Thai monarchy.

00:10During King Rama II's reign, the national flag featured a white elephant, revered as a royal emblem.

00:17Defenders of independence.

00:19Elephants played a key role in Thai history,

00:22such as in King Narayasawan's victory during his legendary duel,

00:26where his war elephant was honored with the title Jao Phraya Prabhongsawadee.

00:32Diplomatic icons.

00:33In King Rama V's era, bronze elephant statues were gifted to Singapore and Jakarta.

00:40Transport.

00:41Before modern vehicles, elephants were vital for travel and heavy cargo,

00:46thanks to their strength and intelligence.

00:49However, in modern times, many Thais have undervalued the significance of elephants,

00:54with many handlers exploiting their elephants for profit.