March 14, 2025: Authorities of the Nandipulam Payyorkkavu temple in Kerala are facing legal action for conducting a fireworks display without permission and endangering an elephant during their festival.

The incident occurred on Sunday when two of the seven elephants in the temple procession were tied up on private property near the fireworks site. Shockingly, one elephant was just ten meters away from the explosion area. Video footage captured the distressed animal flinching as sparks flew toward it, visibly struggling due to the heat and deafening noise.

Following public outcry, an investigation revealed that temple officials had failed to obtain the necessary clearance for the fireworks. Though the elephant did not panic or break free, avoiding a major disaster, the reckless handling of explosives has raised serious concerns about the safety of animals at religious events.

The use of elephants in Kerala’s temple festivals has long been a topic of debate. Last month, PETA India proposed donating lifelike mechanical elephants to temples and mosques, on the condition that live elephants be released into sanctuaries. The animal rights group has repeatedly warned that loud noises, firecrackers, and restrictive handling cause severe physical and psychological distress to captive elephants, leading to unpredictable and sometimes deadly outbursts.

The incident has once again put the spotlight on elephant welfare, urging stricter regulations on their use in public festivities.