Rupali Ganguly Urges Narendra Modi to Ban Elephant Rides Amid Pink Elephant Photoshoot Row

In light of recent public backlash regarding a photoshoot featuring a captive elephant painted pink in Rajasthan, actress Rupali Ganguly has addressed a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. A known supporter of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India, Ganguly, who joined the Bharatiya Janata Party in 2024, is advocating for an end to elephant rides in the country. Her correspondence reflects her concern for the welfare of elephants and the need for humane alternatives in tourism.

Animal Welfare Issues Highlighted

In her letter, Ganguly expressed her sadness over the reported death of Chanchal, the elephant involved in the controversial photoshoot, emphasizing her shared commitment to wildlife conservation with the Prime Minister. She pointed out the troubling history of the elephant’s owner, Saddik/Shadik Khan, who is also linked to Malti, an elephant that suffered abuse during her time as a ride provider at Amer Fort. Following efforts from PETA India, Malti was eventually relocated to a sanctuary.

Ganguly stressed that elephants utilized for tourism purposes, such as rides at popular attractions, often endure harsh conditions, including being chained and subjected to physical punishment. She noted that this treatment leads to significant physical and psychological distress for these animals.

Call for Change on World Wildlife Day

In her appeal, Ganguly referenced Prime Minister Modi’s prior statements about wildlife protection made on World Wildlife Day. She proposed that India follow Indonesia’s example by prohibiting all elephant rides and promoting non-animal alternatives, such as robotic elephants and electric vehicles, for entertainment and tourism. This shift, she argues, would help preserve the dignity of elephants, recognized as a national heritage symbol.

Rising Concerns About Elephant Safety

PETA India has raised additional concerns about the risks posed by elephants that are forced into contact with humans, noting that such situations can lead to unpredictable behavior. Incidents involving attacks by elephants utilized in rides have been reported frequently. To address these issues, the Kerala Tourism Department is exploring a mechanical elephant safari at Thamboormozhi Butterfly Garden, situated near the renowned Athirapilly waterfalls, which would replace traditional live elephant experiences.

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