In a delightful twist to the usual road toll system, a 40-year-old elephant named Raja has turned himself into a self-appointed toll collector along the Buttala-Kataragama road in Sri Lanka. Known for his love of food, Raja has turned his daily ritual of stopping vehicles into a unique and whimsical “food tax,” adding a touch of charm to the commute.
The Tradition of Raja’s Toll Collection
Raja‘s road tax is no regular toll booth. Vehicles traversing the Buttala-Kataragama road, a lifeline that connects Sri Lanka‘s west coast and southeast coast, need to slow down or halt as the elephant makes an appearance, waiting with his trunk outstretched. Only after being served with a snack does Raja allow the drivers and passengers to continue their journey. It is believed that what began as Raja‘s quest for food has blossomed into a full-fledged, unwritten tradition.
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Locals Prepare for Raja’s Encounter
Locals and regular commuters are well aware of Raja’s routine and prepare accordingly. As they approach the area, they stock up on fruits from roadside stalls, ready to appease the gentle giant. Although Raja occasionally causes minor traffic congestion, the locals have embraced him and his tradition. He is seen as a kind figure, and his “tax collection” is viewed as fair.
A Viral Instagram Moment
Recently, Raja‘s antics were also put on viral when BBC Earth published a video of the elephant in action. The video was captioned “Meet the elephant who collects road tax“ and instantly picked up attention on the net. People saw it so funny as they stop cars and take food in exchange for allowing passage. Many were praising his “tax system,”with one user making a joke comment, saying, “The only corruption that‘s acceptable,” while another said, “This is where and how I want my tax to be paid.”
The Respect and Charm of Raja
Despite the jovial nature of Raja‘s collection of tolls, he is treated with respect and love in the local community. The wild animals and untamed jungle surrounding the Buttala-Kataragama road are more than just a lifeline; they are home to one of the most eccentric “tax” collectors in Raja. Raja‘s food tax may be an oddity, but to many, it is all part of the charm of Sri Lanka‘s wild and untamed beauty.
GST = Gajraj Service Tax.” Indeed, in Raja‘s world, the rules are clearly defined—and his toll collection is as much a part of local culture as the road itself.
