In a significant step towards ethical temple traditions, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India, in collaboration with renowned sitarist Anoushka Shankar, has donated a lifelike mechanical elephant named Kombara Kannan to the Kombara Sreekrishna Swami Temple in Kerala’s Thrissur district. This initiative aligns with the temple’s decision to forgo the use of live elephants, allowing these animals to remain in their natural habitats while maintaining cultural traditions.
The 3-metre-tall, 800-kilogram mechanical elephant, constructed from rubber, fibre, metal, mesh, foam, and steel, is designed to replicate the movements of a real elephant, including head shaking, ear and eye movement, and even water spraying. This marks PETA India’s fifth such donation in Kerala and the second in Thrissur, reflecting a gradual shift toward cruelty-free temple practices.
A Symbolic and Functional Alternative
Kombara Kannan was ceremoniously introduced at the temple by Satish Vimalan, secretary of the Unnayi Variyar Memorial Kalanilayam. The lifelike model, powered by five motors and mounted on a wheelbase, can be easily maneuvered during temple rituals and processions.
Temple priest Rajkumar Namboothiri expressed his support for the initiative, stating, “We are happy to receive this mechanical elephant. It allows us to uphold our traditions while ensuring that no harm comes to animals. We hope more temples will consider such alternatives.”
Balancing Tradition and Animal Welfare
The use of elephants in temple festivals has long been a deeply rooted cultural practice in Kerala. However, animal welfare activists and reports have raised concerns over the conditions many captive elephants endure, including prolonged chaining, heavy saddles, and exposure to loud noises during celebrations. These conditions can lead to physical and psychological distress.
According to a report by the Centre for Research on Animal Rights, 138 captive elephants died in Kerala between 2018 and 2023. Advocates argue that mechanical elephants offer a practical solution that respects both religious customs and animal welfare. However, some devotees and festival organizers have expressed concerns that the use of mechanical elephants may not fully replicate the spiritual and cultural essence associated with live elephants.
A temple devotee shared, “Elephants have been an integral part of our traditions for centuries. While we understand the ethical concerns, adapting to mechanical elephants will take time for many in the community.”
A Gradual Shift Towards Ethical Practices
PETA India has been actively encouraging temples across the state to adopt mechanical elephants, citing them as a sustainable and compassionate alternative. While some temples have welcomed this change, others remain hesitant, highlighting the importance of dialogue and gradual transition.
A PETA India spokesperson noted, “The aim is not to erase tradition but to evolve it in a way that respects both religious customs and the well-being of animals. As more temples adopt mechanical elephants, it could set a precedent for a more humane approach.”
The Logical Indian Perspective
The introduction of mechanical elephants into temples represents a shift in how traditions evolve while addressing modern ethical concerns. While some see it as a positive step towards animal welfare, others feel that the spiritual and cultural connection with live elephants cannot be fully replicated. The conversation around this change highlights the balance between tradition, ethics, and practicality.
As more temples explore such alternatives, discussions on their long-term acceptance and impact continue. The initiative raises a larger question:
How can we navigate the intersection of cultural heritage and ethical considerations in a way that respects all perspectives?
