ISKCON Pandharpur Unveils Mechanical Elephant Airavata

ISKCON Pandharpur, a temple in Maharashtra, India, received a special gift from PETA India—a life-size mechanical elephant named Airavata.

This elephant is not real but looks and moves like one.

It can move its head, ears, eyes, and trunk, and even spray water.

The temple unveiled Airavata on a special day called Ashadhi Ekadashi.

The idea is to use this mechanical elephant instead of real ones in temple ceremonies.

This way, the temple can keep its traditions alive without hurting any animals.

PETA India has donated similar mechanical elephants to other temples in India.

The temple's leader, Lokanath Swami Maharaja, said that this initiative reflects Lord Krishna's teachings of compassion for all living beings.

The mayor of Pandharpur also praised the initiative, saying it shows that traditions can evolve while keeping their spiritual essence.

The mechanical elephant is about three meters tall and weighs nearly 500 kg.

It is powered by five motors and can be used in processions and other religious events.