Elephant Characters of Thailand 4
Elephant Characters of Thailand 4: Khun Yai Bualoy — The Story of a Special Thai Elephant
Today I want to share the story of Khun Yai Bualoy. Not the dessert, but a very special elephant. Her life has touched many hearts.
I first noticed her in photos and videos from different events. She was dancing, performing, or wearing colorful outfits.
One day, I saw an elephant in an amazing costume. I wondered how many meters of cloth were used to make it. When I looked closer, I saw painted eyebrows and long eyelashes. That was Khun Yai Bualoy.
I’m not very good at remembering elephant faces. But I have always loved elephants. So I started following their stories. Later, this became a series of posts about remarkable elephants.
The first was Moo Too.
The second was Mina.
The third was Hu Pab, which was a sad story.
And now, the fourth is Khun Yai Bualoy.
Elephant Characters of Thailand 4
Many people may have seen an elephant walking slowly on a red carpet. She often wears a grand costume, like the finale of a show. That elephant is her.
Her signature is her slow and graceful walk. She often appears near the end of an event. People smile and talk about her with affection.
Because I liked her costumes, I messaged the page admin to ask about her. I was very happy when I received a reply. I am an introvert and often worry about disturbing others. But my curiosity was stronger. That was the beginning of this story.
Learning about Khun Yai made me admire her family. They have cared for her with dedication for generations.
Over time, I saw her in many roles. She wore festival outfits and playful bikinis for events. Sometimes she performed in shows.
Once, I saw her without a costume. I almost did not recognize her. When I realized it was her, I left a lighthearted comment about how different she looked.
Behind the Scenes: Khun Yai Bualoy’s Life
Khun Yai belongs to a mahout family. They have cared for her for more than 30 years. The responsibility passed from grandfather to father. Today, she is 56 years old.
In her younger years, she lived a nomadic life. Later, she worked at an elephant camp in Damnoen Saduak, Ratchaburi Province.
When tourism stopped during the COVID-19 pandemic, she lost her job. She returned home.
Later, she joined other elephants to adapt to the situation. With leadership from Khwarn Joy of Baan Sam Sao Dao Sing, they started a YouTube channel. They also livestreamed while selling fruit to support the elephants.
Each day, Khun Yai walked about six kilometers to join the livestream. The first three years were challenging. There was heat, rain, floods, and even lightning. Thankfully, no lives were lost.
Over time, each elephant found a different way to connect with followers. Khun Yai was older and slower. It was harder for her to stand out. Her family helped her become recognizable.
They created unique costumes, including bikinis. These outfits attracted attention and made her widely known.
Retirement and Everyday Life
Now her family has decided she should retire. She stays home instead of traveling far for work.
These days, she spends time with her mahout father. She lives in a clean space and has plenty of food. She still wears beautiful outfits from time to time.
At first, I felt surprised by her retirement. Then I realized it was an act of love. Sometimes love means giving rest, not more work.
Many people would not guess she is over fifty. She looks strong and healthy. She is not too thin or too heavy. She even has a slightly chubby cheek that makes her look charming.
Elephant Characters of Thailand 4: Moments and Connections
If you watch her walk, you will notice her calm steps. Her pace is slow but confident.
Her mahout walks beside her every day. Their bond is clear. When she appears, people often ask for photos. She stands quietly, as if she understands the moment.
Seeing a real elephant up close is rare for me. When I do, I like to offer sugar cane. It is a small way to show care.
Elephants work hard. They walk long distances and sometimes stand on hot ground. But I also see how her family and fans support her. They bring food, visit her, and send kindness.
People who love elephants understand something special. Their beauty is not only in their appearance. It is in the feelings they create.
Little Stories That Reveal Her Personality
When meeting an elephant, always ask the mahout first. Some elephants are not used to strangers.
Khun Yai is gentle. If someone gives her a banknote, she takes it with her trunk. She may toss it lightly above her head. If someone offers food, she accepts it and eats right away.
Moments like this show her personality. Knowing an elephant feels like knowing an individual soul. Khun Yai has helped me see elephants in a warmer way.
Visit or Support Khun Yai Bualoy
Khun Yai no longer travels for long shows. If you would like to see her, you can visit her at her home village.
You can also follow her on Facebook at Khun Yai Bualoy Family. Support can come in many forms, such as fruit or small donations. Every act of kindness helps.
I hope Khun Yai stays healthy and happy.
I also hope this story helps others see that each elephant has a unique life and personality.
This is another story from Elephant Characters of Thailand. See you in the next episode.
