Source: Instagram/@lek_chailert A quiet, emotional moment between an elephant and its caretaker has caught the internet’s attention. In a video shared by Lek Chailert, founder of Thailand’s Save Elephant Foundation, an elephant is seen gently placing its foot on the caretaker’s lap while she sings to it. The clip, which has now gone viral, shows a unique display of comfort and trust between the two– and has sparked conversations around the emotional intelligence of elephants.
Calm interaction caught at sanctuary
The video was recorded at the Elephant Nature Park, a sanctuary in Chiang Mai, Thailand, run by Chailert. The elephant in the video, Faa Mai, approaches Chailert while she sits on the ground and sings to her. As the singing continues, the elephant wraps its trunk around her and softly rests one leg across her lap– a gesture that was neither forced nor prompted.
Source: Instagram/@lek_chailert
This interaction stood out not for its grandeur, but for the elephant’s slow, measured movement and the caretaker’s calm presence.
Caretaker shares what the moment meant
Describing the moment in her Instagram caption, Chailert wrote, “Every time I sing to Faa Mai, she shows her appreciation by gently wrapping her feet around me in a hug– forgetting that her feet are very heavy! But in that moment, her gentle heart makes even the weight of an elephant feel light. Elephants, like humans, have deep emotions– but their ability to express love, joy, and gratitude is truly extraordinary. The more we learn about elephants, the more we come to love and admire them.”The post, which features the short video, has already crossed over 4 lakh views and continues to be shared widely across platforms.
Social media responds with emotion
The video has led to a wave of reactions from viewers across the world. Many called the interaction moving and reflective of the deep bond that can exist between humans and animals.One user commented, “This is the most beautiful thing I have seen all week; it brought tears to my eyes.” Another remarked, “The way the elephant hugs her shows how much love and trust it feels; this is beyond heartwarming.”
Source: Instagram/@lek_chailert
Others highlighted the importance of recognising animal emotions, with a user writing, “This clip proves animals feel emotions as deeply as humans, what a precious bond.” A viewer added, “It is incredible to see such tenderness from such a giant creature.”
Emotional intelligence in elephants
The interaction is not an isolated incident. Elephants are known for their emotional complexity– including their ability to grieve, form lifelong bonds, and remember individuals even after long periods of separation.In wildlife sanctuaries where they are free from harm and distress, such behaviours are more commonly observed. Faa Mai, who has been at the sanctuary for years, is among several elephants who have shown signs of emotional attachment to their caretakers.Disclaimer: This article is based on a video shared online and the public reactions it received. The views expressed reflect public sentiment and social media commentary. The Times of India does not independently verify or endorse the authenticity of the video or the claims made in it.