Bigg Boss 18’s premier episode saw Salman Khan welcoming 19 contestants who will compete for the coveted trophy during the next three months. But the twist came when one of the contestants, Advocate Gunaratna Sadavarte brought a donkey named Max to the Bigg Boss house and Salman introduced him as the 19th participant. For the last three days, the donkey is seen tied in the garden area, often crying and he-hawing. It was reported that Gunaratna had brought the animal to the house for research about milk production. However, the move did not receive positive reviews from people, who heighted the misuse of animal for entertainment.
In light of this controversy, PETA has now written a letter to the makers of the show as well as Salman Khan, requesting to stop using the innocent animal. “We are being inundated with complaints by members of the public who are deeply distressed over the keeping of a donkey in the Bigg Boss house. Their concerns are valid and must not be ignored,” reads the letter by Shaurya Agrawal, an advocacy associate with People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA).
The letter further request makers to seek support from Gunaratna in allowing the donkey to be taken to a sanctuary. “This would not only prevent stress to the animals and upset to viewers but also set a powerful precedent. We also urge you to encourage Advocate Gunaratna Sadavarte, who has reportedly brought Max into the house, to surrender the donkey to PETA India to rehome in a sanctuary with other rescued donkeys. Such a move would surely win Advocate Sadavarte fans,” it further reads.
The letter also highlighted that Bigg Boss is an entertainment show and use of animals for that purpose is cruel. “As prey animals, donkeys are naturally nervous. They, and other animals, would find the lights, sounds, and clamour that are standard on all show sets confusing and frightening. That a show set is no place for an animal is obvious to viewers who are saddened to see the donkey kept in a small, confined space standing in waste,” the letter mentioned.
Fans Call It A Planned Move
After the news went viral, several Bigg Boss watchers took to their social media handle to appreciate PETA’s move. However, there were a few who pointed out how this was a well-though out plan by Bigg Boss 18 makers to create buzz. One of the user commented, “As if no one knew that PETA would interfere. 17 seasons down, everyone knows how they create a hype to start with the season. #RealityTVDrama #PETA . Consider the first elimination awaiting at the door. #BB18”. Another person also mentioned how a letter was very expected. “Pre planned letter ✉️ Bigboss owners know the game. rating he rating !!!”
People Appreciate PETA
There was no death of comments supporting and appreciating PETA for finally speaking on the matter. The most liked comments read, “That poor animal is trapped in a tiny enclosure, unable to even walk, forced to stand for days in misery. He’s stressed, crying and desperate for freedom. It’s heartbreaking. Thanks to PETA for stepping in. But what on earth is BB Creatives thinking? But why to bring animal?” Another one said, “For 24 hrs that animal is stuck at one place which is inhuman behaviour. Let animal enjoy freedom. PETA did good initiative.” One fan shared, “It made me so sad when that Poor animal was crying in that episode. That animal was tied up 24 hours . Such a cruel behavior by @BiggBoss. Animal should never be used to so called entertainment. @BeingSalmanKhan be more responsible. Thankyou @PetaIndia @peta.”
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