Pronunciation: [kˈɛdə] (IPA) 
The word "khedah" is an English translation of a Hindi term used to describe a method of capturing wild elephants for domestication. The spelling of the word is influenced by the Hindi language and uses the Devanagari script. In the IPA phonetic transcription, the word would be spelled /kɛˈdɑː/ with the emphasis on the first syllable. The "kh" sound is a voiceless velar fricative, a consonant that is not commonly found in English.
Khedah is a noun that refers to a method used in capturing, training, or taming wild elephants. It originated in Southeast Asia, particularly in the regions of India and Burma, and has been practiced for centuries. The term "khedah" is derived from the Sanskrit word "krida," meaning game or sport.
The khedah technique involves a systematic and organized approach to capturing and domesticating elephants. It typically requires a group of skilled individuals known as mahouts, who are experienced in handling and working with elephants. The process typically begins with locating a suitable area where wild elephants are found.
A series of large pits and trenches are dug and camouflaged to create traps for the elephants. These pits are then covered with sticks, leaves, and other natural materials to entice the elephants into stepping on the concealed traps. Once an elephant falls into a pit, ropes and pulleys are used to extract it safely.
After capturing the elephants, they are directed to a fenced and enclosed area known as a kraal. Here, they undergo a period of taming and training, which involves familiarizing the animal with human presence, teaching basic commands, and gradually establishing a rapport between the mahouts and the elephant. This process may take several weeks or even months, depending on the elephant's temperament and response to the training.
The khedah technique represents a historical ethological interaction between humans and elephants, primarily intended for domestic or work purposes. It has played a significant role in the cultural heritage and history of several Southeast Asian communities, shaping the coexistence between humans and these majestic creatures.
