There is a strong bond between the Thai people and elephants. The animals hold a revered place in this society, because of their symbolic importance to monarchs, religion, and the nation as a whole. A Thai legend has it that a marriage is like an elephant --the husband is the front legs, choosing the direction; while the wife is the back legs, providing the power.

Famous as the strongest beasts in Thailand, elephants took an important role in ancient battles. Kings mounted the beasts in the defense of the nation on many occasions.