Jaipur photoshoot sparks outrage: Elephant painted pink, animal lovers fume

Jaipur (The Uttam Hindu): A shocking incident has emerged from Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, sparking a major controversy on social media. In front of a temple, Barcelona-based Russian photographer Julia Buruleva painted a real elephant bright pink for a special photoshoot. Photos of a model sitting on the back of this pink elephant are rapidly going viral on the internet. Animal lovers and common internet users are furious as soon as these photos surfaced, calling them utter cruelty to animals.

This strange idea was inspired by Rajasthani culture

Russian photographer Julia Buruleva was in Jaipur on an art expedition. Sharing photos from the controversial photoshoot on her Instagram account, she explained that the idea was inspired by the city's colorful atmosphere and unique culture. She envisioned a pink elephant standing in front of traditional Rajasthani doors. She believed the elephant was a significant symbol of Rajasthan, so she couldn't resist incorporating it into her art project. She also explained that obtaining permission for the heritage location and visiting several farms to arrange for an elephant for the shoot was challenging.

As the controversy escalated, the photographer clarified that the colours were organic

After photos of the pink elephant went viral, raising serious questions about animal safety and cruelty, Julia Buruleva was forced to issue a clarification. The photographer claims that the pink dye used to paint the elephant was completely natural (organic) and local. She argued that it was the same color commonly used during festivals in India, so it did not harm the elephant's skin or health and was completely safe for it.

'Abuse for Instagram likes' sparks outrage

Despite the photographer's clarification, anger on social media continues unabated. People are calling this act an act of abuse of innocent animals in the name of art. One user reacted sharply, writing that coming to India and painting elephants just to garner likes on Instagram is not art, but cruelty. Others said that creative freedom does not mean committing irresponsible acts and using an animal as a mere prop in your photographs. Many users also questioned that when modern technology like Artificial Intelligence (AI) is available to enhance photographs, why was there a need to harm a real elephant for one's hobby?