Chennai: As per media report, Bomman and Bellie, the tribal duo showcased in the Oscar-winning documentary “The Elephant Whisperers,” have withdrawn their previous allegations against director Kartiki Gonsalves and Sikhya Entertainment regarding exploitation. In a recent video, Bomman clarified that he lacks knowledge about the origin of the legal notice or the identity of the advocating individual.
The acclaimed documentary ‘The Elephant Whisperers’ brought India international acclaim by winning the Best Documentary category at the Oscars in 2023. In an earlier interview, Bomman and Bellie asserted that they were promised compensation by Kartiki and Sikhya Entertainment but felt disconnected from the team after the film’s success.
In the recent video, the couple also mentioned that Kartiki had promised to cover the expenses for their wedding sequence in the documentary, a promise that has not been fulfilled. Following this interview, a legal notice was issued demanding ₹2 crores as a ‘goodwill gesture.’
According to news report, Bomman retracted his statements, expressing his lack of knowledge about the legal notice or the advocate involved. He clarified, “I am not aware of what transpired there. I do not know who sent the legal notice or who the advocate is. I do not possess any evidence. Kartiki spoke to me kindly and mentioned her willingness to assist.”
Asked whether he intends to proceed with the case, Bomman responded, “What will I achieve with the case? They have assured me of help and provided me with this job opportunity.”
Following the circulation of this video, Kartiki Gonsalves issued a statement refuting all allegations. She emphasised that the documentary aimed to spotlight elephant conservation efforts and the dedication of the Forest Department and its mahouts, including Bomman and Bellie. The film’s release has led to increased awareness and significant contributions from various quarters to support the mahouts and the caretakers’ community.
Kartiki highlighted that the documentary’s success has earned recognition from national leaders, and the Academy Award has brought significant acknowledgment to the work of mahouts like Bomman and Bellie. She emphasised the documentary’s positive impact and asserted that all claims against them are baseless.
In response to the documentary’s international acclaim, both the state and Union governments have honoured the filmmakers and the couple with monetary rewards. The government provided a house for Bomman and Bellie, along with a reward of ₹1 lakhs each, while Kartiki received a substantial sum of ₹1 crores as well.
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