(PC: Zeenewsindia)
A New Era in Temple Traditions
In a groundbreaking move to prevent animal cruelty and enhance safety, a historic temple in Kerala’s Kodungallur has adopted a life-size mechanical elephant named ‘Thaleeswaran’. The Nediyathali Sri Siva temple has taken a significant step towards modernizing its traditions by embracing technology.
The Mechanical Elephant
The 3-meter-tall, 800-kilogram robot elephant was gifted to the temple by PETA India and Bollywood actor Jackie Shroff. This innovative solution aims to reduce the suffering of live elephants in captivity, which often face harsh training and poor living conditions.
A Humane Approach
Kerala’s laws require elephants to rest for at least 12 hours after parading for 5 hours, and 5 hours of rest after traveling. However, despite these regulations, elephants have been known to suffer in captivity. The mechanical elephant is a step towards a more humane approach, ensuring the safety and well-being of both humans and animals.
A Precedent for Other Temples
The Nediyathali Sri Siva temple’s decision to adopt a mechanical elephant sets a precedent for other temples in Kerala. PETA India has already donated 10 mechanical elephants to various temples, highlighting the growing trend towards more compassionate and safe practices.
- Thaleeswaran: The mechanical elephant is 3 meters tall and weighs 800 kilograms.
- PETA India’s Initiative: The organization has donated 11 mechanical elephants to temples across India.
- Safety and Compassion: The mechanical elephant ensures the safety and well-being of both humans and animals.
- Kerala’s Laws: Elephants are required to rest for at least 12 hours after parading for 5 hours, and 5 hours of rest after traveling.
The Nediyathali Sri Siva temple’s adoption of a mechanical elephant marks a significant step towards a more humane and safe approach to temple traditions. This innovative solution sets a precedent for other temples and highlights the importance of compassion and technology in preserving cultural heritage.