mahout

A mahout is a keeper and driver of an elephant. This term originates from Hindi and Urdu and has been in use since 1662. Elephants are the largest living land animals, found in tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and Asia. They are characterized by their long trunks, columnar legs, and large heads. There are three living species of elephants: the African savanna elephant, the African forest elephant, and the Asian elephant.12

Historically, mahouts and other elephant trainers have maintained close bonds with these animals, caring for their needs. In some parts of Asia, elephants, guided by their mahouts, were once essential for logging operations. While elephants have been used in circuses, concerns about animal welfare have led to bans on wild animal acts in some regions, impacting traditional circus performances.23