Robot Replaces Elephant in Indian Temple

Which temple has replaced an elephant with a robot?

The Irinjadappilly Sree Krishna Temple in Kerala's Thrissur district has decided to replace a real elephant with a mechanical elephant. The temple administration made this choice as they promised to stop using real animals for festivals.

The robot elephant was donated by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India. It was given so that the temple could hold events without using real animals. It weighs 800 kg and is made of iron with a rubber coating. It has five powerful electric motors and can carry up to five people. The trunk can be controlled by the mahout.

What was the reason behind this decision?

Elephants are an important part of temple festivals in Kerala. But, these elephants are usually chained. This has raised concerns among animal welfare activists. They have spoken out against the cruel treatment of these animals.

PETA India says that these animals face severe punishment. Also, the elephants may have foot injuries as they are chained to concrete for long periods of time. PETA has encouraged all temples in Kerala to replace real elephants with robotic ones.

The organisation hopes that the decision taken by the Irinjadappilly Sree Krishna Temple will inspire others to use robot elephants.

What is PETA?

PETA is the world's largest animal rights organisation. It was founded in 1980, and its head office is in the United States of America (USA). The organisation wants to stop animal cruelty. PETA tries to educate people, rescue animals, and organise protests to save animals.

PETA has stopped lab testing of animals. The fashion industry no longer uses animal furs thanks to protests organised by PETA. So, the organisation is doing a good job of saving animals.

How else do you think PETA can help animals? Tell us in the comments below.