🐘 Raja the “Tax Collector”: Sri Lanka’s Gentle Giant Who Stops Cars for Snacks

Along the winding Buttala-Kataragama road in Sri Lanka, travelers encounter a toll unlike any other—not a booth, not a barrier, but a four-ton wild elephant named Raja. Known affectionately by locals as the “tax collector,” Raja has become a beloved roadside fixture, famous for his unique method of collecting payment: snacks.

Instead of coins or tickets, Raja expects offerings of fruit—bananas, jackfruit, or whatever treats drivers have on hand. If a vehicle slows down, he ambles into the road, blocking the path with his massive frame until the “tax” is paid. Only then does he step aside, allowing the journey to continue.

🍌 A Gentle Giant with a Routine

Raja, believed to be over 40 years old, has perfected his routine. He doesn’t chase cars or act aggressively. He simply waits, calmly and patiently, for his tribute. Drivers have learned to keep fruit ready, and many even look forward to the encounter. Some say he recognizes familiar vehicles and remembers generous drivers.

His behavior has gone viral online, with videos showing him gently poking at car windows with his trunk, waiting for his snack. Social media users have dubbed him “Sri Lanka’s most punctual toll collector”.

🌿 Conservation Meets Curiosity

While Raja’s antics are endearing, wildlife experts urge caution. Feeding wild elephants can encourage risky behavior and increase human-animal conflict. Still, Raja’s story highlights the delicate balance between conservation and coexistence—and the charm of a creature who’s found a way to interact peacefully with humans.

In a world full of toll booths and traffic jams, Raja reminds us that sometimes, the most memorable detours come with a trunk and a smile.