The Elephant Whisperers Seek ₹2 Crore 'Goodwill Gesture' from Oscar-Winning Filmmaker

BENGALURU: In a legal notice, Bomman and Bellie, the famed mahout couple who gained international recognition through the Oscar-winning documentary "The Elephant Whisperers," are seeking a 'goodwill gesture' of ₹2 crore from filmmaker Kartiki Gonsalves. According to the notice, the couple claimed they were promised a proper house, an all-terrain vehicle, and substantial financial support as one-time compensation for their involvement in the project. However, the specific amount was not mentioned.

The legal notice also alleged that while the couple was presented as "the real heroes" to prominent figures, celebrities, and politicians, the filmmaker reaped all the financial benefits, including funds from the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and the Prime Minister of India.

When approached by the media, Bomman refrained from discussing the case and directed inquiries to their legal representatives. Chennai-based social activist and lawyer Pravin Raj, who has known the couple for nearly a decade, revealed that he connected them with a law firm when they sought help.

According to Raj, Bomman and Bellie expressed disappointment with Gonsalves, who had pledged financial assistance and educational support for Bellie's granddaughter during the documentary's production. However, Gonsalves allegedly refused to share a fraction of the substantial profits generated by the film.

Advocate Mohammed Mansoor, handling the case, received a reply notice from Sikhya Entertainment Pvt Ltd, representing Gonsalves, stating that she had already provided monetary help to the couple and was unwilling to offer further assistance. Mansoor plans to respond with a rejoinder after consulting his clients.

Sikhya Entertainment Pvt Ltd released a statement denying the claims and emphasizing the documentary's objective of promoting elephant conservation and highlighting the efforts of mahouts like Bomman and Bellie. The film's success allegedly led to contributions from the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister for the welfare of mahouts and cavadis and the development of an eco-friendly elephant camp.

Despite the statement from the production company, the legal battle between Bomman and Bellie and Kartiki Gonsalves continues, with the mahout couple seeking recognition for their efforts and compensation they believe they deserve.

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