Television actor and animal rights advocate Rupali Ganguly has voiced strong concern following the controversy surrounding a pink-painted elephant used in a photoshoot in Rajasthan. The incident, which went viral across social media, triggered widespread outrage over alleged animal cruelty, especially after reports emerged that the elephant, named Chanchal, had died.

Rupali Ganguly reacts to Pink Elephant controversy

In response, Ganguly wrote a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging immediate action to prevent the exploitation of elephants for entertainment and tourism. She called for a nationwide ban on elephant rides and encouraged the adoption of humane alternatives such as robotic elephants and decorated electric vehicles. Her appeal aligns with growing public sentiment demanding stricter protections for animals.

The controversy began after images surfaced of Chanchal painted bright pink for a photoshoot conducted by a foreign photographer in Jaipur. The visuals sparked backlash from activists and citizens alike, who criticised the use of animals in such staged settings. Many argued that such practices subject animals to unnecessary stress and harm, reigniting debates about ethical tourism and animal rights in India.

Expressing grief over the elephant’s reported death, Ganguly stated that the incident had “upset people across India and beyond,” reflecting a shift in public awareness and intolerance toward animal exploitation. She referenced the importance of wildlife protection and urged the government to act in the spirit of conservation by ending such practices.

Rupali Ganguly urges to PM Modi

In her letter, she also highlighted the harsh realities faced by elephants used in tourism, including being chained for long hours and controlled using physical force. According to her, these conditions can lead to severe physical and psychological distress, making such practices both inhumane and dangerous.

However, the issue has also seen conflicting claims. Some associated with the photoshoot have denied any wrongdoing, stating that the paint used was non-toxic and that the elephant’s death may have been due to natural causes unrelated to the shoot.

Despite differing accounts, the incident has intensified calls for reform and sparked a broader conversation about replacing live animals in entertainment with technology-driven alternatives. Ganguly’s appeal underscores a growing movement advocating for cruelty-free practices while preserving cultural and tourism experiences.