A panel discussion that took place over the weekend in Bangalore featured a dialogue between wildlife conservationist Vinod Krishnan and psychologist Dr. Chaitanya Sridhar, who is also the founder of an environmental conservation organization called Aane. The duo explored the complexities of human-elephant conflict and discussed potential ways to move forward. Major points highlighted during the discussion included the importance for urban residents to familiarize themselves with their local ecosystems. Dr. Chaitanya emphasized the significance of understanding how our actions and perceptions shape our interactions with elephants and nature. He stressed the need to challenge prevalent narratives and cultivate a deeper appreciation for these remarkable animals. The media tends to depict elephants negatively when they enter urban environments; however, it is vital to recognize that these animals are forced into cities due to habitat loss and disrupted migration patterns. Rather than labeling them as rogue elephants, the focus should be on comprehending and addressing the underlying causes of this conflict. World Elephant Day serves as an occasion to reflect on individual contributions to elephant conservation and to support policymakers and organizations in educating urban populations about these majestic creatures. Dr. Chaitanya underlined the importance of treating elephants with respect, acknowledging their needs and challenges, and recognizing them as vital components of our natural heritage. Safeguarding elephants is a shared responsibility, requiring us to examine our involvement in ensuring their well-being.Contributing to the challenges faced by elephants involves understanding their ecosystem, reducing our consumption, and curbing excessive greed. Ultimately, a holistic approach is needed that promotes tolerance and respect for wildlife. Vinod explained the importance of shifting our perception towards sharing space with elephants since they require vast territories to survive. Understanding their needs and respecting their natural behaviors are crucial for their survival in our world. Vinod Krishnan, wildlife conservationist.