What is the Elephant Freedom Pledge?

The Elephant Freedom Pledge is a commitment made by 21 Indian film and content production companies to stop using live elephants in their projects, in an effort to promote more ethical and compassionate filmmaking.

How will Indian filmmakers replace live elephants?

Indian filmmakers are being encouraged to use advanced computer-generated imagery (CGI), visual effects, or mechanical elephants that closely resemble the real thing. These realistic models are already being used by more than 20 temples in southern India and can perform natural gestures.

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Indian Film Industry Pledges to Ditch Live Elephants for Ethical Filmmaking

Q: Why did PETA India appeal to the Indian film industry?

PETA India appealed to the Indian film industry because they highlighted the suffering elephants face when used for entertainment purposes such as films, television, and advertisements. According to PETA, these elephants are often taken from their families, subjected to harsh training methods, and kept in chains when not performing.

10 Nov, 2025

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Summary

21 Indian film and content production companies pledge to not use live elephants
Move follows PETA India's appeal highlighting elephant suffering in entertainment industry
Filmmakers encouraged to use CGI, visual effects, or mechanical elephants instead

Indian Film Industry Pledges to Ditch Live Elephants for Ethical Filmmaking

As of November 10th, 2025, a significant development has taken place in the Indian film industry. Twenty-one leading film and content production companies have pledged to no longer use live elephants in their projects, marking a major step towards more ethical and compassionate filmmaking.

This decision follows an appeal from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India, which had previously drawn attention to the suffering elephants face when used for entertainment purposes such as films, television, and advertisements. According to PETA India, these elephants are often taken from their families, subjected to harsh training methods, and kept in chains when not performing.