The Elephant Whisperers brought international acclaim and an Oscar to the spotlight, but behind a troubling story of alleged exploitation and mistreatment. Tribal couple Bomman and Bellie, whose stellar performances in the documentary won hearts worldwide, have come forward with serious accusations against director Kartiki Gonsalves and Sikhya Entertainment, the production company behind the film.
In a recent interview that air on a popular YouTube Channel on 4th August 2023, Bomman and Bellie spoke candidly about their experiences working with Kartiki Gonsalves and how their relationship with the filmmaker change dramatically after the documentary’s success.
During the filming of ‘The Elephant Whisperers,’ the couple share a warm and friendly bond with Kartiki Gonsalves.
But, they alleged that her behavior towards them shift drastically once the documentary receive international acclaim and recognition.
The controversy began when Bomman and Bellie reveal the financial burden they endure while participating in a wedding scene for the film.
Despite being ask to be part of the scene, they claim they had to utilize their savings, meant for Bellie’s granddaughter’s education, to cover the expenses amounting to Rs 1 lakh.
Despite assurances from Kartiki Gonsalves that the money would be repaid, the couple assert that they have yet to receive the promise reimbursement.
Efforts to reach the filmmaker proved futile, with Kartiki Gonsalves reportedly being evasive and unresponsive.
The alleged mistreatment did not end there.
Bomman and Bellie express deep disappointment over their treatment during the felicitation ceremony after ‘The Elephant Whisperers’ won the Oscar.
Despite their tribal identity being an integral part of the documentary’s success, they claim they were not allow to touch or hold the prestigious Oscar statuette during the ceremony.
The duo said that this exclusion left them dishearten and shatter the peace they once had.
Their struggles continue even after the documentary’s acclaim.
The couple recount a distressing incident where they lack the funds for their journey back home to the Nilgiris after returning from Mumbai.
When they approach Kartiki Gonsalves for financial assistance, they alleged that the filmmaker did not provide any immediate help.
Also, the promise remuneration for their performances turn out to be a mere Rs 60, which Kartiki Gonsalves brush off as being spent by the couple.
In response to the grave allegations, Sikhya Entertainment release a statement defending the purpose behind creating ‘The Elephant Whisperers.’
They emphasize that the primary goal was to raise awareness about elephant conservation and to acknowledge the efforts of the Forest Department and the mahouts, including Bomman and Bellie.
So, the statement remain silent on the specific allegations raise by the tribal stars, failing to address the issue of remuneration and contractual matters.
