Popular elephant Pallattu Brahmadathan dies after lightning strike in Kerala

Kottayam, Oct 4 (UNI) Pallattu Brahmadathan, a popular captive elephant known for its participation in major temple festivals in Kerala, died after being struck by lightning at Melambara near Erattupetta in Kottayam district on Sunday evening. The elephant, owned by Erattupetta native Rajesh Pallattu, was tethered in the premises of the owner's house when the lightning struck during heavy rain at around 1800 hours. Brahmadathan suffered serious injuries in the lightning strike and died soon afterwards. A veterinary doctor who reached the spot confirmed the death, according to sources. Around 45 years old and standing about 10 feet tall, Brahmadathan…