It turned into a drama when Mild Napasasi visited Surin Province, dressed stylishly in a traditional Thai shoulder cloth paired with contemporary jeans, presenting herself as a modern Thai woman while sitting elegantly on an elephant tusk. The clip was presented quite harmoniously.
However, a mild controversy arose as netizens warned against Mild sitting on the elephant tusk like this, saying it is not a seat, the tusk may bear too much weight, and it could be dangerous. For example,
"I hope people won’t climb on elephant tusks following this. The elephant must be heavy. Even if it’s just for a moment, the tusk is a wildlife organ, not a seat or load-bearing equipment, which risks harm. It could injure the tusk or joints. Sitting on tusks is inappropriate, unsafe, and violates animal welfare principles. The recommended way to pose with elephants is safe and respects the animals." "I’m not confused about the drama but more confused that some aren’t concerned. Elephant keepers allowing this might not care about the elephants’ safety as much as the content creators do, who just aim to make content."
But the owner of the famous elephant responded, "It’s allowed. The elders traditionally taught sitting on tusks long ago. It does not harm the elephant. I, the elephant keeper, personally took Mild to sit on it." and "If you don’t step on the tusk or sit improperly, it is possible to sit without harm or wrongdoing."
As for Mild, she has not yet issued any further statements. We will have to wait for her to clarify the matter again.
