Raju the elephant's five year celebration of freedom is melting hearts, find out why

An elephant who was kept in captivity for almost 50 years before he was rescued, celebrated five years of freedom. Raju the elephant spent 50 years of his life on the streets of Uttar Pradesh, hoping that his cruel owner would let him free. 

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However, Raju was rescued by Wildlife SOS, an NGO that saves and rehabilitates animals in pain and distress. They found him in 2014.

In a statement about Raju, the Wildlife SOS team said that because of years of ill-treatment, mental & physical abuse and inadequate care he was miserable and traumatized. They further added that he was bound so tightly that he suffered many scars and still has chronic scrapes; evidence of repeated bullhook jabs.

He was rescued and moved to an Elephant Conservation and Care Center in Mathura, where he had an area to himself and got lots of affection, love and good food.
To celebrate Raju’s five years newfound freedom, the Wildlife SOS team did something very adorable and heart-warming. They prepared a cake out of pulses, fruits, and vegetables for Raju. 

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The enthusiastic and considerate team at the Wildlife SOS also made Raju a sugarcane structure in the shape of a ‘5’. Excited and happy to see the cake, Raju had every bit of the cake with his trunk and stuffed it all within a matter of a few minutes.

The CEO of Wildlife SOS said in a statement that watching Raju enjoy his retirement years in peace and joy fills their hearts with warmth and happiness. He further added that it keeps the team motivated to continue rescuing and taking care of elephants like Raju.

Take a look at the adorable video of Raju the elephant having the time of his life! 

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