Controversy Surrounds Use of Donkey in Bigg Boss 18

Following its grand premiere, the 18th season of the popular reality show Bigg Boss introduced 18 new contestants, including TV actors, politicians, and social media influencers. However, it is the inclusion of a 19th contestant, a donkey named Gadhraj, that has stirred controversy among viewers and animal rights advocates.

The animal welfare organization, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India, has expressed concern over the presence of the donkey in the reality show. Shaurya Agrawal, PETA India’s advocacy associate, wrote a letter to the show’s host, Salman Khan, urging him to reconsider the use of the donkey on the show. Agrawal stated that PETA received numerous complaints from the public about the situation, emphasizing, “Their concerns are valid and must not be ignored.”

PETA India’s letter criticized the inclusion of the donkey as “distressing” and urged Salman Khan to use his influence to remove the animal from the show, suggesting it be relocated to a sanctuary with other rescued donkeys. The organization argued that the “use of animals on a show set is no laughing matter,” and called on Khan to “avoid using animals as props for entertainment.”

The donkey was introduced to the Bigg Boss house by one of the contestants, Advocate Sadavarte, during the premiere hosted by Salman Khan. Khan entrusted the contestants with the creature’s well-being during its stay. While some audience members found the inclusion humorous, others criticized it as unfair to the donkey, which unlike the human contestants, did not voluntarily join the show.

A notable comment from a viewer on Reddit stated, “The contestants are trapped there with their consent, but the donkey is not.” The audience’s mixed reactions highlight differing opinions on what constitutes appropriate content for entertainment.

The current season of Bigg Boss, which began airing on Colors TV and JioCinema on October 6, 2024, follows the format of previous seasons where contestants are secluded in a house for several weeks, competing in various challenges and forming alliances.