Mysore/Mysuru: People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India, along with actors Aindrita Ray and Diganth Manchale, have donated ‘Shiva’, a unique three-metre-tall mechanical elephant weighing approximately 800 kg, to Jagadguru Sri Veerasimhasana Mahasamsthana Mutt (Sri Suttur Mutt) near Mysuru. 

This generous donation is in recognition of the Mutt’s commendable decision to refrain from keeping or hiring live elephants.

Shiva will be utilised for conducting ceremonies at the Mutt in a manner that is safe and cruelty-free, thereby allowing real elephants to remain with their families in the jungle. Aindrita Ray expressed her pride in donating this technology alongside PETA India to Suttur Mutt, emphasising that cultural traditions can evolve to be modern, traditional and compassionate. Diganth echoed these sentiments, highlighting the importance of allowing elephants to live freely with their families for their well-being and respecting God’s creation.

Suttur Seer Sri Shivarathri Deshikendra Mahaswamiji expressed satisfaction in using the mechanical elephant Shiva as a gesture of reverence to all animals created by God, underscoring the simplicity and cost-effectiveness of such mechanical alternatives, which do not pose any risk of danger or distress.