In some Indian temples, robotic elephants draw crowds and controversy

In India, Prasanth Prakashan has developed life-size robotic elephants made from fibreglass, iron, and rubber. These animatrons are designed to replace live elephants in Hindu temples, featuring moving parts like flapping ears and swishing tails. This innovation is supported by animal welfare activists who are pleased with the move away from using live animals. However, the robotic elephants have also sparked controversy among those who believe real elephants are essential to temple rituals and festivals, where they hold significant cultural and religious importance. The robotic elephants are intended to fulfill the role of live elephants in these sacred settings.

Robotic elephants are being introduced in some Hindu temples in India as a replacement for live elephants in rituals and festivals. Mechanical engineer Prasanth Prakashan crafts these life-size animatronics, which feature flapping ears, swishing tails, and water-squirting trunks. This initiative, supported by animal welfare groups like PETA, aims to address concerns about the abuse and potential danger of live elephants, with incidents of fatal rampages occurring. While animal welfare activists and some temple officials welcome the change, traditionalists who view live elephants as sacred are resistant. The robotic elephants, costing around $6,000 each, are still unable to walk but are intended to capture the essence of the majestic animals.