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Elephant Polo |
Introduction of
Elephant Polo |
Royal elephant polo-
Since very
ancient times Elephants have been a part of Indian culture. They were
representatives of the strength and power of kings and Emperors. It
was therefore natural that polo "The King of Sports"and simultaneously
"The Sport of The Kings" was Included to be played on elephants as
well.
Jaipur, naturally and obviously enough, had a huge role to play in
growth of elephant polo as it was not only the most popular polo
centre but also was a remarkable state with apparently the largest
elephant paraphernalia.Jaipur has had a long and colorful society
with Elephants. Every festival, Every formal occasion, Every religious
ceremony would be incomplete without a row of gaily decorated, well
caparisoned Elephants.
Jaipur, is the one and only place in the world where one can observes
this unique sport throughout the year. Watching it, is a different and
an memorable experience. The Colossal size of the elephant evokes awe,
yet it's docile nature, it's wonderful movements and it's doleful eyes
have always attracted man, it's impressive presence has combined with
regal splendor and elephant remained forever as one of the most
significant possessions of the kings. Though the elephants lacked the
speed and agility of the polo horses, it is great fun to watch the
enormous pachyderms moving around the field after the ball at great
speed, of course in elephantine standard.
The Rajasthan government's tourism department also conducts elephant
polo matches in the Pink City during its annual elephant festival at
the city's Chaughan Stadium.
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Elephant |
The giant
animal has always fascinated man and playing polo sitting comfortably
on it is a unforgettable experience. Its awesome presence has been
combined with the regal splendor, pomp and ceremony. Enjoy an amazing
experience in Jaipur, which is the only place in the world where you
can witness this exclusive sport throughout the year.
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Elephant Polo in Rajasthan |
Polo is
also played on the back of elephants in Rajasthan. Although, it is not
a serious sport, but still draws attention of the people as polo is a
fast game and it is played on the elephants who can hardly move as
fast in the restricted space of a stadium. It is very cheerful to
watch the elephant polo. The elephant polo can also be specially
conducted on request and competition is held annually at Chaugan.
Elephant polo game was introduced in Meghauli, Nepal. Tiger Tops in
Nepal remains the headquarters of elephant polo and the site of the
World Elephant Polo Championships
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Basic Rules of the Game Elephant Polo |
• The game
begins with a throw in, from the centre of the field.
• A player is granted only three taps / hits at the ball, after which
he/she has to leave possession of ball.
• Hooking of sticks is not allowed.
• There can not be more than two elephants from the same team in any
one half of the field.
• When the ball goes over the side line, the team that did not hit it
has a hit-in from where it went out.
• Penalty hits are to be taken from 20 yards from the goal line and in
a penalty the opposition elephants must be atleast 15 yards away.
• Team change ends only after each "CHUKKER"
• Ladies may use two hands, men can use only one (To hold the polo
stick).
• No elephant can lie down between the goal posts.
• The decision of the Umpire is final.
• The player may be damn good, but if the elephant plays to loose
,nobody can stop him.
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Elephant Polo |
Elephant Polo |
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Elephant
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Elephant
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