Bollywood veteran Jackie Shroff has partnered with PETA India to donate a life-size mechanical elephant to the Nediyathali Sri Siva Temple in Kodungallur, near Thrissur, Kerala. The initiative, described as “a jumbo stride in kindness,” aims to preserve cultural traditions while protecting elephants from captivity.
Speaking about the move, Shroff said his heart lights up when he sees “God’s creations living happily.” He added, “Elephants are not meant to be chained or forced to perform rituals. God created them to roam in forests, splash in rivers, and live free.”
What is a mechanical elephant?
A mechanical elephant is a life-size robotic model designed to look, move, and function like a real elephant. Built using rubber, fibre, steel, mesh, foam, and motors, these robotic jumbos replicate natural elephant behaviour without causing harm to animals. The donated elephant, named ‘Thaleeswaran’, is:
1. 3 metres tall and 800 kilograms heavy
2. Powered by five motors
3. Capable of shaking its head, moving ears and eyes, lifting its trunk, wagging its tail, and even spraying water
4. Mounted on a wheelbase, making it mobile for temple processions
5. Operated simply by plugging it into an electrical source
It can also carry a seat on its back for ceremonial rides, just like a real elephant, but without any cruelty.
Why it matters?
For decades, Kerala’s cultural festivals have featured elephants in rituals and parades. But behind the grandeur lies a harsh reality, captive elephants often endure chains, long working hours, and isolation from their herds. Animal rights activists have repeatedly highlighted the stress and cruelty these creatures face in captivity.
Mechanical elephants provide a cruelty-free solution, allowing temples to uphold customs while promoting kindness to animals.
Thaleeswaran is the 11th mechanical elephant donated by PETA India and the seventh in Kerala. Each has been warmly welcomed, showing a shift towards sustainable and compassionate temple practices.
