Elephant forced to entertain tourists for over 40 years has gotten its first taste of freedom
Thong Bai, a legendary bull elephant from Surin, Thailand, spent over 40 years used for human entertainment in advertisements, films, and events. After years of advocacy by Lek Chailert, founder of The Elephant Sanctuary, and Khun NuNa Silpa-archa, Thong Bai was finally freed.
The agreement with his owner allowed him to roam freely in a large enclosure as part of the Surin Project, which provides better living conditions for elephants.
Thong Bai now lives in a spacious, safe environment, no longer chained or forced to work.
His release marks a long-awaited victory for animal rights, highlighting the cruelty elephants face in captivity.
