Hyderabad: Ahead of the annual Bibi-ka-Alam Muharram procession in Hyderabad’s Old City, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals India has proposed the use of a life-size mechanical elephant as an alternative to a live elephant during the traditional event.
The organisation, along with actor and singer Zahrah S Khan, has offered to donate the mechanical elephant to the Telangana Waqf Board.
According to the organisation, a letter was submitted to the Waqf Board suggesting that modern alternatives could be considered for large public and ceremonial gatherings.
The proposed mechanical elephant is designed to resemble the movements and appearance of a real elephant. Officials associated with the initiative said it can move its trunk, head, ears, eyes and tail, and is mounted on a wheeled platform for processional use.
The model is also equipped with a ceremonial seating arrangement and water-spraying features.
In the letter, Zahrah Khan stated that crowded and noisy public events can sometimes become difficult environments for animals and suggested that mechanical alternatives may help organisers continue traditional practices while adopting newer technology-based options.
The organisation also pointed out that similar mechanical elephants have been used at religious and ceremonial events in different parts of the country, including temples and weddings.
The proposal comes ahead of Muharram preparations in Hyderabad, where the historic Bibi-ka-Alam procession continues to hold strong religious and cultural significance and draws large gatherings every year.
Over recent years, discussions around the use of technology in traditional public events have gradually increased in different parts of the country, particularly in relation to logistics, crowd management and ceremonial arrangements.
At present, there has been no official response from organisers or the Waqf Board regarding the proposal.
The Bibi-ka-Alam procession remains one of Hyderabad’s most recognised Muharram observances and continues to attract devotees and visitors from across the city and neighbouring regions.
