Animal welfare activists are upset with the growing use of elephants in marriage ceremonies in Kerala, India.<br /><br />The latest trigger is a video shot by an activist, which shows a stylish bride leading her wedding procession by holding an elephant by its tusk. The groom sits on top of the animal twirling a custom-made umbrella. <br /><br />Noted elephant rights activist Rajeev N Kurup said: “Ignorance is driving this new custom. These majestic giants are not for our entertainment. They belong to the forest.” <br /><br />The South Indian state of Kerala has more than 600 privately-owned elephants, which are mostly rented out for religious ceremonies. <br /><br />Activists allege that elephants are tortured with metal rods or bullhooks to make them obedient. <br /><br />As their owners tend to exploit them to earn maximum revenue, many of them are found emaciated, overworked and shackled in chains that eat into their skin.<br /><br />In the past seven years, 350 captive elephants have allegedly died from ill-treatment. <br /><br />A government circular issued on May 2 acknowledges that 10 captive elephants have died so far in 2018 and directs officials to ensure these animals are treated well.
