A controversy has erupted over a photoshoot by a Russian photographer in Jaipur, where an elephant was painted bright pink. The images have drawn strong criticism, with many raising concerns over animal welfare and the treatment of wildlife.
Travel photographer Julia Buruleva shared the pictures on social media, sparking an online debate. While some praised the visuals, others questioned the ethics behind using an elephant in such a manner.
Buruleva said the shoot was inspired by Jaipur’s pink theme. “I spent six weeks in the city. The pink colour influenced me, and I conceptualised a shoot featuring a pink elephant at the Heritage Gate,” she said, adding that elephants are a prominent symbol of Rajasthan. The shoot featured model Yashasvi.
Meanwhile, a forest department official said the matter will be investigated.
The model did this photoshoot sitting on a pink colored elephant.
This is how the photoshoot was done. Artists applying color on the elephant. The model was also prepared in pink color.
Photographer doing photoshoot.
This elephant was colored pink from one side.
The model also did a photoshoot in pink color in front of Hawa Mahal.
Photographer travels extensively for location and permissions
Russian photographer Julia Buruleva said she travelled across multiple locations in Jaipur to plan the shoot. She noted that elephants are often decorated during festivals in India, which inspired her to use a bright pink shade popular in Rajasthan.
“The preparation was challenging. I visited several elephant facilities to find people willing to cooperate. I had to return multiple times to convince them of the project,” she said.
Finding a suitable location was equally difficult due to heritage restrictions and permission processes. “I would leave early in the morning, searching for empty streets and the right light. Eventually, I found a spot near a Lord Ganesha temple, which suited the concept,” she added.
Finding a model proved equally difficult
Buruleva said it was not easy to find a model willing to participate. “In a conservative society, many declined due to family concerns, especially because the shoot involved minimal clothing and body paint,” she said.
After approaching several candidates, she finalised model Yashasvi, calling her “brave and confident” for agreeing to the shoot.
She also addressed concerns about the elephant, stating that only organic, locally used colours were applied, similar to those used during festivals, and that the process was safe.
Elephant owner clarifies shoot details
Elephant owner Shadik Khan said, ‘’Elephant, named Chanchal, was around 65 years old and was not being used for rides at the time. “The shoot lasted about 10 minutes.
Raw gulal was applied and washed off immediately. It was the same colour used during Holi,” he said, adding that the elephant passed away in February.
Ballu Khan, president of the Elephant Village Development Committee, said the colour was applied only on part of the elephant’s body and removed soon after the shoot.
Mixed reactions on social media
The photos triggered widespread debate online. While some users praised the visuals as creative, many criticised the act, raising concerns about animal welfare.
One user wrote that causing discomfort to an animal for aesthetic purposes was wrong and suggested using AI instead. Another pointed out that even organic colours could harm elephants due to their sensitive skin.
Several users appreciated the concept but questioned the method, with one comment stating, “Glad you liked Jaipur, but next time don’t paint the elephant.”