Taj

From the Super Mario Wiki

Taj
Full Name	Taj the Genie
First Appearance	Diddy Kong Racing (1997)
Species	elephant
Affiliation(s)	Diddy Kong
Latest Appearance	Diddy Kong Racing DS (as a playable character)

Taj the Genie is a large elephant who is respected by all. During the events of the game Diddy Kong Racing Taj helps Diddy Kong and his pals in their quest to kick the evil Wizpig off of Timber's Island. In the game players can race Taj up to three times, if beaten Taj will award his opponent with a Golden Balloon. Taj can also change the vehicle being used currently for a different one.

It is unknown if Taj was going to appear in Diddy Kong Racing's cancelled Game Boy Advance sequel, Diddy Kong Pilot. It is most likely he was though due to his large role in Diddy Kong Racing.

Taj in Donkey Kong Racing.

Taj was to make a reappearance in now apparently canceled Gamecube game Donkey Kong Racing. Here was apparently going to be a playable character as he was seen participating in races along with other characters such as Tiny Kong and Donkey Kong.

Taj makes a return appearance in Diddy Kong Racing DS. Taj is even an unlockable racer in this game. Here, he is unlocked by defeating Adventure One Mode. Taj has maximum top speed, but horrible acceleration and turning. He is the fastest character in the game while in a car. He seems to have a British accent in this game.

[edit] Trivia

• The first ever Mario series use of the name "Taj" actually appeared on Tetris Attack's high score board.
• A taj (from the Arabic word for "crown") is a brimless hat worn by people from Muslim countries.