40-year-old Punam Kali crowned this year’s ‘Miss Elephant’ (photos)
The festival, organized by the Chitwan Regional Hotel Association, began on Paush 11 and is currently in its second day.
KATHMANDU: Punam Kali, a 40-year-old elephant, has claimed the top prize at the 19th Elephant and Tourism Festival 2082 in Sauraha, scoring 250 points and winning Rs 15,000 in cash.
The festival, organized by the Chitwan Regional Hotel Association, began on Paush 11 and is currently in its second day.
Five elephants—Punam Kali (40), Selfie Kali (20), Champa Kali (35), Puja Kali (40), and Samriddhi Kali (26)—competed in the contest.
Punam Kali emerged victorious with a perfect score of 250 points, followed by Selfie Kali as the first runner-up with 235 points and Champa Kali as the second runner-up with 224 points.
Samriddhi Kali and Puja Kali secured 216 and 209 points, respectively.
Scores were awarded based on the elephants’ appearance, walking style, health, and obedience. Selfie Kali and Champa Kali received cash prizes of Rs 10,000 and Rs 5,000, respectively.
-Saroj Basnet
