On a day dominated by bowlers, Elgar was out for four and 12 in an ignominious end to a Test batting career which yielded 5347 runs in 86 matches at an average of 37.92.
Elgar, captaining South Africa in the absence of Temba Bavuma, chose to bat on a pitch which gave plenty of help to the bowlers.
He was bowled by Mohammed Siraj in the first innings when South Africa were bowled out for 55.
After India were dismissed for 153, Elgar was caught by Virat Kohli at first slip off Mukesh Kumar after an opening stand of 37 with Aiden Markram.
As he reluctantly left the field, Indian players ran to shake his hand.
