KL Rahul donates mechanical elephant to Padmanabhapuram Mahavishnu Kshetram

In a unique gesture, cricketer KL Rahul gifts a mechanical elephant to a centuries-old temple, ensuring safer festivities and preserving tradition without risking lives.

Indian cricket star and proud Kannadiga KL Rahul has once again proven that his faith goes beyond mere ritual. The stylish batter has made headlines by donating a mechanical elephant to the historic Sri Padmanabhapuram Mahavishnu Kshetram temple.

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The donation, made in collaboration with PETA India on the occasion of Krishna Janmashtami, is a first-of-its-kind initiative aimed at ending the use of live elephants during temple festivities. The robotic elephant, named Padmanabhan, will now participate in religious processions and festivals, replacing live elephants that are often subjected to stress and abuse.

Rahul’s act is not just about devotion—it carries a strong message of social responsibility. Reports of elephants running amok during temple festivals, injuring and even killing devotees, have raised concerns in recent years. Just this January, one person died and 17 were injured in Malappuram after an elephant went berserk. Similar tragedies occurred in February at Manakulangara Bhagavathi Temple, where three devotees lost their lives.

By introducing this cruelty-free alternative, Rahul hopes to inspire other temples to adopt similar practices. 

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Rahul, known for his deep spiritual roots, frequently visits temples across Karnataka, including Ghati Subramanya and Ujjain’s Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga. His gesture reflects not only his devotion but also his growing inclination toward spiritual and ethical living. Whether on the field or off it, KL Rahul continues to set an example that faith and compassion can go hand in hand.

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