FOUR PAWS is excited to share our involvement in The Great Elephant Migration, a breathtaking public art installation that not only honors the majestic beauty of elephants but also highlights the urgent need for animal welfare and coexistence.

Organized by Elephant Family, The Great Elephant Migration features 100 life-sized elephant sculptures, each meticulously crafted by talented indigenous artisans from India. This inspiring exhibit aims to raise awareness and funds for animal welfare and conservation efforts worldwide, symbolizing our shared commitment to peaceful coexistence with wildlife.

Having launched in Newport, Rhode Island, last summer, the exhibit has already journeyed through New York City, Miami, and Houston. With the goal of raising millions for animal welfare and conservation initiatives, The Great Elephant Migration will continue its adventure across the country, with upcoming stops in:

Houston, Texas (April 1 – 30^th, 2025) Learn more about this event!

Jackson Hole, Wyoming (May 17 - June 20, 2025)

Glacier National Park, Montana (June 3 - June 20, 2025)

Los Angeles, California (July 2025)

We are especially honored to name one of the matriarch elephants in the migration after the real-life elephant, Madhubala. In 2024, FOUR PAWS successfully relocated Madhubala from the unsuitable conditions of Karachi Zoo to a new, species-appropriate enclosure at Karachi Safari Park. After enduring over 15 years in captivity and the heartbreaking loss of her sister Noor Jehan, Madhubala’s journey embodies resilience, loyalty, love, and hope.

The careful planning for Madhubala's relocation involved collaboration with experts, including Dr. Frank Göritz, head veterinarian from the Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research. The logistical challenge of safely transporting Madhubala was executed with precision, ensuring her comfort and safety throughout the journey. Upon her arrival, she underwent a health assessment that revealed positive reactions as she began to explore her new surroundings.

Madhubala's relocation not only transformed her quality of life but also stands as a powerful symbol of progress for animal welfare. As FOUR PAWS CEO Josef Pfabigan stated, “Madhubala’s rehoming into a species-appropriate enclosure is a gigantic step for animal welfare in Pakistan and sends a strong signal to other countries where elephants are still kept in private captivity for entertainment purposes.” Her journey reflects our broader mission through The Great Elephant Migration to advocate for the conservation of elephants and their habitats.

A particularly heartwarming moment occurred when Madhubala was reunited with her sisters, Malika and Sonia, in their new enclosure. After years of separation, this joyful reunion was celebrated by local observers and animal welfare advocates alike, underscoring the importance of family bonds among elephants and the need for compassionate care and rehabilitation.

As The Great Elephant Migration travels across the U.S., it serves as a poignant reminder of our interconnectedness and the importance of compassion in creating a better world for wildlife. By participating in this exhibition, we can all contribute to raising awareness and supporting the vital work of organizations dedicated to helping elephants and other animals thrive.

Join us in celebrating The Great Elephant Migration and the inspiring story of Madhubala. Together, we can make a difference for elephants and promote a future where they can live freely and peacefully alongside humans.

Thank you for your commitment to animal welfare!

Join the Conversation! Post your photos and thoughts using #FollowMadhubala and #EmpathyForElephants to show your support!