Chanchal, a 70-year-old female elephant from Jaipur’s Hathi Gaon, became the centre of a nationwide debate after being featured in a viral photoshoot where she was painted bright pink. Reported by Aanchal C from The Free Press Journal.
The controversy intensified following her death in February 2026, although authorities have confirmed that her passing was due to natural, age-related causes and not linked to the photoshoot.
What began as an artistic project soon turned into one of the most widely discussed animal welfare issues in India this year. While officials have maintained that there is no connection between the shoot and Chanchal’s death, public reactions online have continued to question the ethics behind the act.
Who Was Chanchal?
Chanchal lived in Jaipur’s Hathi Gaon, also known as Elephant Village, a dedicated area where elephants are cared for by traditional mahouts.
According to reports, she was around 70 years old at the time of her death. In her later years, she was under regular supervision and was no longer used for rides due to her age.
Those familiar with her described Chanchal as a calm and gentle animal who had spent her entire life within Jaipur’s elephant community.
Her death in February 2026 was attributed to natural causes, a conclusion supported by her owner, Shadik Khan, and local authorities. There is no confirmed evidence linking her death to the photoshoot that brought her widespread attention.
The Viral Photoshoot
The controversy traces back to late 2025, when Barcelona-based Russian photographer Julia Buruleva visited India for a six-week art expedition.
Inspired by Jaipur’s identity as the Pink City, she conceptualised a surreal photoshoot featuring a model and an elephant, both painted in pink, against the backdrop of an abandoned temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha.
As reported, the shoot featured model Yashasvi alongside Chanchal, with both covered in a striking shade of pink. Buruleva stated that she used organic, locally-made gulal—the same powder commonly used during the Holi festival—and described the elephant as appearing "calm, relaxed and responsive" throughout.
Chanchal’s owner, Shadik Khan, confirmed that the photoshoot lasted around 10 minutes and that the colour was washed off immediately afterward. Ballu Khan, president of the Hathi Gaon committee, also stated that the paint was removed within 30 minutes.
Public Reaction and Debate
Although the images were initially shared on Instagram in December 2025 with little attention, they resurfaced in March 2026 and quickly went viral. The reaction was intense and divided.
While some praised the creative concept and visual appeal of the project, a much larger section of users criticised it, raising concerns about animal welfare and accusing the photographer of insensitivity.
Despite official clarifications that Chanchal’s death was unrelated to the shoot, the incident has continued to fuel discussions around ethical treatment of animals, artistic freedom, and cultural responsibility.
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