Abstract:

Rising from the hot, dusty plains of Southern India is a mountain range called Anamalai, which means "The Elephant Mountain." Through this Living Eden of lush tropical forests and bamboo stands, elephant herds roam free and unmolested -- the masters of all they survey. Considered to be the living incarnation of the Hindu god Ganesh, the Asian elephant is revered as the lord of protection and all animals -- from the mighty tiger to the humble tree frog -- fall within its benevolent authority. This intimate portrait of life in Anamalai begins with the birth of a baby elephant, following it through its first year of life under the ever-watchful eye of its mother and its large extended family. The program also tells the story of the other animals that share this mountain sanctuary and the role of the elephant in creating and maintaining this unique Eden. Anne Bancroft narrates.