- Indian forest officials have launched an investigation following social media outrage over a Russian photographer's photoshoot in Jaipur, where a 65-year-old elephant was painted bright pink.
- Animal rights activists accused Barcelona-based conceptual photographer Julia Buruleva of animal cruelty after images went viral this month.
- Ms Buruleva defended her actions, claiming the paint used was organic and similar to colours "used for festivals, so it was absolutely safe for the animal", and that the concept was inspired by Jaipur's vibrant culture.
- The elephant's owner, Shadik Khan, said the animal, named Chanchal, was 65 years old at the time and died in February, adding that a natural, washable powdered colour was used for the brief shoot.
- Authorities will examine whether appropriate permissions were secured and if animal welfare standards were maintained during the incident.
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Elephant painted bright pink for photoshoot prompts investigation in India
