In March 2023, the Indian documentary The Elephant Whisperers achieved a milestone by winning an Oscar. The film, directed by newcomer Kartiki Gonsalves, beautifully chronicles the extraordinary journey of Bomman and Bellie, a devoted couple who wholeheartedly dedicated their lives to nurturing Raghu, an orphaned elephant. Presently, the couple has garnered significant attention due to recent developments.
According to reports circulating on social media, Bomman and Bellie have taken legal action by sending a formal notice requesting a goodwill gesture of Rs 2 crore from filmmaker Kartiki Gonsalves. The notice, a copy obtained by PTI, reveals that the couple was initially promised a proper house, an all-terrain multi-purpose vehicle, and substantial financial support as a one-time lump sum payment tied to the project’s earnings.
The legal notice outlines the discrepancy between the couple’s portrayal as real heroes to luminaries like celebrities, sports figures, and political leaders, leading to widespread recognition. Despite this, the couple alleges that while the filmmaker benefited financially from the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and the Prime Minister of India, the promised compensation to Bomman and Bellie remains unfulfilled. Chennai-based social activist and lawyer Pravin Raj, who shares a decade-long association with Bomman and Bellie, facilitated their connection with a reputable law firm in Chennai in response to their predicament.
Feeling let down by Gonsalves, Bomman and Bellie claim that the filmmaker committed initially to providing financial support and aiding Bellie’s granddaughter’s education during the filmmaking process. However, they contend that Gonsalves has since refrained from sharing even a fraction of the substantial profits generated by the documentary. Raj further revealed that the couple diligently followed Gonsalves’ directives, expecting mutual prosperity, only to find their calls unanswered.
Meanwhile, Sikhya Entertainment Pvt Ltd issued a formal statement to PTI, reaffirming their primary objective of spotlighting elephant conservation and highlighting the commendable efforts of forest department mahouts such as Bomman and Bellie. Since its release, the documentary has effectively ignited awareness within the mahout and cavadis community, garnering tangible support, including contributions from Tamil Nadu’s Chief Minister, MK Stalin.
The documentary’s widespread acclaim, marked by the prestigious Academy Award, has brought well-deserved recognition to the dedication of mahouts like Bomman and Bellie. Dismissing the allegations, the statement underscores the organization’s unwavering commitment to fostering positive change while maintaining deep respect for all those involved in the project.
