In 2019, disturbing images of an emaciated 70-year-old elephant named Tikiri sparked global outrage. Forced to march in Sri Lanka’s 10-day Perahera Festival despite her failing health, Tikiri wore a costume to hide her protruding bones and walked long distances each night alongside performers.
Shared by Save the Elephant Foundation for World Elephant Day, the images went viral and fueled a petition signed by over 100,000 people demanding an end to such cruelty. The petition described her pain: “No one sees the tears in her eyes… her legs are short shackled.”
Following the backlash, Tikiri was returned to her owner but never recovered. She died in September 2019. Her life was described as one of “slavery,” and her death brought sorrow and a renewed call for better treatment of captive elephants.
“Tikiri’s suffering has ended, her soul is now free,” the Foundation wrote. “RIP dear Tikiri.”