The Gangs of Wasseypur actress believes the mechanical elephant will help preserve the temple’s age-old traditions while ensuring that real elephants are spared from captivity and can thrive in their natural surroundings.
By Our Correspondent
Actor Richa Chadha, PETA India and Compassion Unlimited Plus Action (CUPA) have donated a life-size mechanical elephant, Neela Prabha, to Shri Chayadevi Shri Shanaishwara Swamy Kshetra in Bengaluru.
The mechanical elephant was unveiled yesterday by businessman and philanthropist Shri Dhayananda R, along with Renukeshwara MR, chairman of Fabcare & Façade, temple officials and devotees.
The initiative was supported by PETA India and CUPA in recognition of the temple’s decision not to own or hire live elephants. This is the 28th robotic elephant donation facilitated by PETA India across India and the ninth in Karnataka.
The inauguration was marked by a cultural performance and bhajans. Photos and video from the event are available online.
Actor Richa Chadha said, “I am pleased to collaborate with PETA India in presenting Neela Prabha to Shri Chayadevi Shri Shanaishwara Swamy Kshetra, Bengaluru. This mechanical elephant will help preserve the temple’s age-old traditions while ensuring that real elephants are spared from captivity and can thrive in their natural surroundings. It is particularly meaningful for me to be associated with this initiative in Bangalore, a city known for its rich culture and heritage.”
Chief Guest, Dayananda R said, “The introduction of Neela Prabha at Shri Chayadevi Shri Shanaishwara Swamy Kshetra is a wonderful example of how faith and compassion can go hand in hand. By embracing innovative and humane alternatives, the temple is setting an inspiring precedent for communities across the country. I commend PETA India and the temple authorities for taking this thoughtful step that honours both tradition and animal welfare.”
Temple administrator Adityanan said “Temples have long served as centres of spiritual guidance and social progress. The arrival of Neela Prabha demonstrates that cultural practices can evolve in ways that reflect kindness and responsibility. I am delighted to be part of this occasion and hope this initiative encourages more institutions to adopt compassionate practices that protect elephants from a lifetime of captivity.”
PETA India said elephants are intelligent wild animals that suffer in captivity, especially when used in processions. It said mechanical elephants offer a cruelty-free alternative for rituals and religious events.
The 3-metre-tall mechanical elephant weighs 500 kilograms and is made of rubber, fibre, metal, mesh, foam and steel. It runs on five motors and can move its head, ears, eyes, trunk and tail, while also spraying water.
Shri Chayadevi Shri Shanaishwara Swamy Kshetra is a well-known spiritual centre in Bengaluru dedicated to Lord Shani and draws devotees from across Karnataka and beyond.
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