Elephants used in religious festivals and temple ceremonies in South and Southeast Asia face welfare challenges from captivity, chains, and public event stress.
Temple and festival elephants experience a complex mix of welfare conditions. The mahout relationship can be genuinely positive, with elephants receiving good care from dedicated handlers. However, extended chaining, transport to events, exposure to loud music and crowds, and inadequate veterinary care create significant welfare deficits. The welfare case for reform does not require eliminating cultural traditions but rather improving conditions: providing adequate space, reducing chaining, improving veterinary access, and eventually transitioning high-stress ceremonies to cultural alternatives.