India, March 31 -- A set of photographs showing an elephant painted bright pink for an artistic shoot in Jaipur has stirred a controversy online, with many raising questions about animal welfare and ethical treatment.

(Also read: Foreign photographer faces backlash for painting elephant pink in Jaipur for photoshoot: 'Should've just used AI')

The images, shot by a Russian artist and widely shared across social media platforms, prompted criticism from users who expressed concern over the use of animals in creative projects.

According to a report by PTI , the elephant featured in the shoot had died last month. Officials, however, clarified that there is no connection between the photoshoot and the animal's death.

Sadik Khan, the elephan...