Rajagopal P. V. from South India traces a mysterious story that took place between subtropical Kerala, Lisbon and Vienna in the early days of Western colonial history. In the process, he meets Europeans who tell him amazing things and show him surprising things. They, too, gain a different perspective on their history through his research and inquiries. Repressed pre-'histories' of current tensions come into focus. Rajagopal wants to unravel the secrets surrounding RAJA.

RAJA was an elephant who lived around the middle of the 16th century. Free, he spent several years in the forests of Kerala in southern India until he was captured and trained to drag logs or - richly adorned - lead temple processions.

A drastic turn of events: RAJA is sent on an adventurous journey that takes him across vast seas around Africa and snowy Alps to imperial Vienna. The Portuguese king Johann III gave him together with his mahout to the future emperor Maximilian II. The sea route to India had been "discovered" by the Portuguese shortly before, and European rulers seized the "exotic" giants as impressive status symbols, among many other things.

The long journey is full of challenges. Care and nutrition are inadequate. After a year and a half in the West, the imposing Indian messenger dies, leaving behind legendary traces. He witnessed the beginning of a history of empowerment and appropriation that continues to this day.

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