Kunnumkullam (Kerala), Nov 2 (ANI): 60 caparisoned tuskers stole show at the grand church festival in Thrissur district of Kerala.

The glorious show of elephants was part of the St. George Orthodox Church festival. Thousands of villagers thronged the place.

The elephants were lined in a uniform manner in the centre of the ground and the mahouts (elephant keeper or trainer) kept photos of Saint George on the tuskers.

According to Fr. Isaac B. Prakash, festival committee member, never before have so many elephants gathered at the church to take part in the annual festival.

"The main attraction of Perennial or the feast is the submission of more than 60 elephants," said Fr. Isaac B. Prakash.

During the festival, villagers come from across the region in motley group, carrying a set of band, traditional drums accompanied by ten elephants.

The church has been celebrating this festival for many years.

"Every year, I never miss to take part in the church's festival. This year, there is a huge crowd of elephants and also people from all religion gathered here to witness the show," said Vishnu Kumar, villager.

In the wake of recent mishaps, the Kerala Government has ordered to strictly implement laws under the Captive Elephant Management Rules.

The officials ensured that elephants involved in the festival were free of disease and carried a certificate from a veterinary octor. (ANI)