Who is Julia Buruleva? Russian photographer under fire over ‘pink elephant’ photoshoot in Jaipur

A Russian photographer's photoshoot featuring a model on a pink-painted elephant in Jaipur has ignited widespread criticism across India. Concerns over animal welfare were amplified when it was confirmed the controversial concept was real, not digitally altered.

Key takeaways

Quick scan — what you need to know:

• A Russian photographer's photoshoot featuring a model on a pink-painted elephant in Jaipur has ignited widespread criticism across India.
• Concerns over animal welfare were amplified when it was confirmed the controversial concept was real, not digitally altered.
• The photographer defended the use of organic, festival-like powders, claiming permissions were obtained and the elephant was cared for.

Background

What led here, in plain terms:

• Concerns over animal welfare were amplified when it was confirmed the controversial concept was real, not digitally altered.
• The photographer defended the use of organic, festival-like powders, claiming permissions were obtained and the elephant was cared for.

Why it matters

Why readers and decision-makers should care:

• The photographer defended the use of organic, festival-like powders, claiming permissions were obtained and the elephant was cared for.
• A Russian photographer's photoshoot featuring a model on a pink-painted elephant in Jaipur has ignited widespread criticism across India.
• Concerns over animal welfare were amplified when it was confirmed the controversial concept was real, not digitally altered.