Over the weekend in Bengaluru, a panel discussion took place featuring wildlife conservationist Vinod Krishnan and Dr. Chaitanya Sridhar, a psychologist and the founder of Aane—an environmental conservation organization. The discussion centered around human-elephant conflict and the necessary steps ahead. Key points discussed included the importance of urban dwellers understanding local ecosystems and being mindful of how their actions and perceptions affect their understanding of elephants. The conversation emphasized the need to reconnect with nature and challenge existing narratives about elephants, shedding light on the fact that they are driven into urban areas due to habitat loss and disrupted migration routes, rather than being rogue animals. It was suggested that World Elephant Day serves as an opportunity to engage in conversations about contributing to elephant conservation efforts and supporting awareness initiatives among urban populations. Dr. Chaitanya stressed the importance of respecting and understanding elephants, viewing them as magnificent symbols of our natural heritage and recognizing the shared responsibility of protecting them.Addressing the challenges faced by elephants involves comprehending their ecosystem, reducing consumption, and restraining excessive greed. A holistic approach promoting tolerance and respect towards wildlife is essential. Vinod emphasized the significance of a shift in perception: "Space is crucial not only for us but also for many other living creatures, particularly elephants. These animals depend on large territories to thrive. It is our responsibility to coexist with them and honor their habitat. Understanding their requirements and acknowledging their natural behaviors are vital for their well-being." - Vinod Krishnan, wildlife conservationist