It's likely this myth arose from:
* Observing elephants in captivity: Elephants in zoos or enclosures might seem to face a particular direction, but this is likely due to the layout of their space, the presence of food or water, or simply their natural movements.
* Folklore or superstition: Some cultures have beliefs about the direction animals face, but these are not based on any real evidence.
So, next time you see an elephant, don't worry about which direction it's facing – it's likely just going about its day!