02.04.2026 17:12
The revelation that a 65-year-old elephant, painted pink for a photo shoot in India, died shortly afterward sparked significant outrage. The resurfaced images on social media reignited discussions about animal rights, and an investigation into the incident has been launched.
The news that a 65-year-old elephant named “Chanchal,” belonging to the Asian elephant species, passed away shortly after being painted pink for a photo shoot has sparked significant backlash on social media. Authorities have launched an investigation following the incident.
CONTROVERSIAL SHOOT IN JAIPUR
Russian photographer Julia Buruleva painted the elephant bright pink during a shoot in Jaipur, India. Photos featuring a model painted in the same tones posing on the elephant were published in December.
As the images resurfaced, discussions reignited.
“NOT ART, BUT EXPLOITATION” RESPONSE
Animal rights advocates stated that the shoot caused stress to the animal, arguing that it was “not art, but exploitation.” Numerous criticisms were made regarding the ethics of painting the elephant.
PHOTOGRAPHER: “NATURAL AND HARMLESS PAINT WAS USED”
Photographer Buruleva claimed that the paint used was natural and harmless, that the process was completed quickly, and that the elephant was thoroughly cleaned afterward. She asserted that the shoot was conducted under the supervision of the elephant's caretaker and that the animal remained calm throughout the process.
SHOOT IN DECEMBER, DEATH IN FEBRUARY
The elephant's owner, Shadik Khan, stated that the shoot lasted about 10 minutes, that a natural paint called “kaccha gulal” was used, and that the elephant was washed afterward. He explained that Chanchal died in February due to age-related reasons.
INVESTIGATION INITIATED
Authorities have initiated an investigation to determine whether the necessary permits were obtained for the shoot and whether animal welfare regulations were followed.
Animal rights organizations emphasized the need for stricter legal regulations for elephants used for tourism purposes in India.