In Kerala, India, a temple is embracing technology to protect animals and uphold tradition. Robot elephants are now performing rituals that once involved real, captive elephants.
These lifelike machines are impressive. The robotic elephant flaps its ears, swishes its tail, and sprays water from its trunk—just like a real one. It stands 11 feet tall, weighs 800 kilograms, and can even carry a person.
This innovation comes from PETA India, which donated the robot to the Irinjadappilly Sree Krishna Temple. The goal is clear: end animal abuse in religious practices. Traditionally, elephants used in festivals face loud noises, bright lights, and huge crowds. As a result, many suffer from extreme stress. In some cases, panicked elephants have injured or even killed people.
Despite their sacred status, Asian elephants are often removed from the wild and forced into captivity. In Hinduism, elephants are associated with Lord Ganesh, the remover of obstacles and god of wisdom. Sadly, the reverence for this animal leads to a contradiction—worship leads to suffering. Captivity often means sedation, chaining, and years of confinement.
Currently, India has around 2,700 captive elephants. Recently, the Centre for Research on Animal Rights (CRAR) warned Kerala’s chief minister about rising elephant deaths. Between 2018 and 2023, 138 elephants have died due to poor conditions.
Clearly, this shift to robotic elephants is more than symbolic. It’s a step toward ethical, compassionate worship—one that preserves culture while protecting both people and animals.
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