Bride & groom flee on bikes after 100 elephants disrupt wedding in West Bengal

economictimes.indiatimes.com:

Bengal turned chaotic when an unexpected guest arrived – a herd of elephants! As per ToI, the incident occurred in Jowalbhanga village, where Tanmoy Singha and Mampi Singha were celebrating their marriage. As the guests were settling down for a feast, the elephants appeared. The bride and groom had to flee the venue on motorbike.

The presence of over 100 elephants roaming in various forest pockets of Jhargram has instilled fear among the residents, especially in areas like Jowalbhanga, Kajla, Kusumgram, Jhaobani, Adishol, and Kolabani. The elephants have been known to enter villages and homes, attracted by the smell of food and local brew. The wedding guests, ready to enjoy mutton, pointed gourd cooked with shrimps, lentil soup, and potato curry, had to quickly vacate the area when the cries of elephants were heard.

The couple's relatives ensured their safety and escorted them home on bikes. The ToI report stated that the menace of the elephants has not only disrupted weddings but also impacted the panchayat elections, where candidates refrained from campaigning due to the fear of encountering the jumbos. Foresters estimate that more than 100 elephants are scattered across the forests of Jhargram, moving in smaller groups.

They enter villages in search of food, causing disruptions and fear among the residents. As a result, several couples in the area have decided to postpone their weddings. The fear of attracting elephants with the smell of food has led to a dilemma for couples who find it challenging to hold celebrations without feeding the villagers and guests.