Thrissur: In a significant move towards cruelty-free temple rituals, a Kerala temple has introduced a life-sized robotic elephant in place of live elephants for its ceremonies. This initiative, supported by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), aims to eliminate animal suffering and promote ethical treatment of elephants.
The use of elephants in temple rituals has been a long-standing tradition in Kerala, but concerns over their welfare, captivity, and mistreatment have led to growing calls for reform. By adopting a mechanical elephant, the temple sets a precedent for others to follow, ensuring that religious festivities continue without harming animals.
Animal rights activists and conservationists have welcomed the decision, urging more temples to adopt similar measures to protect India’s captive elephant population.
