ReadingAnimals

As the Month of Elephants series is winding down, and I’m wondering how to wrap up the project, I came across this story about a wedding that used an elephant as a prop. The elaborate ceremony included hundreds of guests and a groom riding an elephant through the streets of DC.

Seems a shame that cruelty would be at the heart of this celebration that is presumably about love. Why? According to the news report, the choice was inspired by childhood experiences having once seen it at a family wedding and also by a fictional story. Reporting on the event, the Post noted of the groom:

He also has a fondness for the huge animals that stems from a favorite
film and an Indian childhood classic, “Haathi Mere Saathi,” the story
of an orphan boy with elephant friends.

So elephants who cared for a boy who needed care, and a boy who loved elephants inspires riding and parading an elephant? I’m not sure I understand, especially since it seems that the movie plot emphasizes the desperation and powerlessness that the orphan and the elephants experienced together. (I say this only from the plot summary - I haven’t seen it).

In any case, the risks for the elephant and the public should preclude such practices on the grounds of humane treatment and public safety. I don’t know Mr. Shah, but perhaps he would take his inspiration from the movie one step further to treat Minnie as a friend; he could sponsor Minnie’s transfer to a sanctuary where she would never be rented like a table or hotel ballroom and where her well being would be the singular priority.

·

·