Big Temple elephant dies

The 63-year-old elephant "Velliammal" of the famous Brahadeeswarar temple died here today.

The elephant, suffering from arthritis in the knee for the past eight years, was in an immobile condition.

This year, it was not sent to the annual rejuvenation camp organised by the government for temple elephants.

The elephant's condition had worsened last week and the animal died this morning, temple officials said.