Who knew that the Danish colonized India at one point?
I didn't know either. Seems to have been quite a small area though, not comparable to some other nations.

Danish India - Wikipedia

Danish overseas colonies - Wikipedia
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Who knew that the Danish colonized India at one point?
I don't think that's the prerequisite to become a member - the order predates the colonization of India by both Denmark and Great Britain and one of the current knights is Germany's president Steinmeier. I'm not familiar with the fineprint of what the order does, though.
Strange to be given something, only to have to relinquish it upon death.
What would happen if the Elephant gets lost?
This could be the basis of a great mystery book…
Well... I guess looking at it in a philosophical sense, we all have to relinquish our earthly possessions when we die. 🤷♀️
Would be interesting to know if anyone has lost their Elephant 🤔 I did find this article explaining it all pretty thoroughly
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What’s that elephant the Danes are wearing? Tatler’s guide to the emblems and quirks of Denmark’s highest honour, the Order of the Elephant
A curious little diamond-encrusted elephant, a blue sash, a gold collar – and sometimes a big flaming cape…Tatler looks into the history and tradition of Denmark's most privileged Order. With Frederik X set to become sovereign of the Order as he becomes King on Sunday, you might see a few of...www.tatler.com
Maude: “Well, some people get upset because they feel they have a hold on some things. I’m merely acting as a gentle reminder, here today, gone tomorrow, so don’t get attached to things.
Even more bizarreThe Queen, Philip and Churchill were all members!
Early recycling, I suppose.Ha! You brought to mind one of my favorite movies - Harold and Maude. We are only here for a short time and only borrowing the things we have in our possession.
I rather like the idea of the elephants being put back into circulation - the unique "ownership" history of each one and how meaningful that can be to the recipient. More than just a token item to be worn, it carries many lifetimes of memories and events.
Even more bizarre
Something to be said for spontaneity imo