Jhargram, West Bengal: Ramlal, the well-known tusker of the Junglemahal region, stunned forest officials and local residents after engaging in a fierce battle with another male elephant near the Kangsabati River in Jhargram.

The confrontation took place on Friday in the Ramrama Beat of the Jhargram forest division, after another large tusker apparently challenged Ramlal’s dominance in the area. The two elephants fought intensely, sending clouds of dust into the air as the battle continued along the riverbank.

Ramlal is a familiar figure in Jhargram and neighbouring forest areas. Unlike the elephants that generally move in herds, the tusker has spent considerable time living independently, roaming through forests as well as villages and towns in search of food. Locals have long been familiar with the elephant and have often described him as relatively calm despite his imposing presence.

A battle after years

Ramlal’s latest fight is particularly significant because his previous known battle for dominance took place around seven years ago in the forests of Bankura. He subsequently lost his position as leader of a herd after being challenged by a larger male and spent years moving separately through the forests of Bankura and West Midnapore.

According to local residents, another male elephant had remained behind in the Ramrama area after a herd was moved towards Amgobara in the Dherua Beat. The elephant and Ramlal had apparently been seen moving together in the forest before their relationship suddenly turned hostile. The confrontation reportedly began at around 2 am and continued into the following morning.

Why did the elephants fight?

Wildlife experts say clashes between male elephants can occur for several reasons, including competition for dominance, territorial control or rivalry between males. In some cases, a large male with prominent tusks may also attract aggression from another male.

A former Jhargram forest official said the latest confrontation could potentially be linked to territorial control or rivalry, although the exact reason remains uncertain.

The dramatic encounter offers a glimpse into the complex social dynamics of wild elephants—and serves as a reminder that even a familiar and apparently calm animal like Ramlal remains a powerful wild elephant whose behaviour can change rapidly when challenged by another male.