People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India has urged Salman Khan and the makers of Bigg Boss to refrain from including animals for entertainment purposes. The organization formally reached out to the show's producers regarding the presence of Advocate Gunaratna Sadavarte's donkey, Max, in the current season.

In Bigg Boss 18, another donkey, affectionately named Gadharaj, is also featured. He has been provided with space in the garden area, and housemates are instructed to care for him.

In a letter sent on Wednesday, PETA India expressed that they have received numerous complaints from concerned members of the public regarding the donkey's inclusion in the house. They requested that Salman Khan encourage the producers to avoid using animals as props for entertainment, emphasizing that doing so would alleviate stress for the animals and prevent distress for viewers. They also suggested that Advocate Sadavarte should surrender Max to PETA India for rehoming in a sanctuary alongside other rescued donkeys, which could help garner positive attention for him.

The letter stated, "While Bigg Boss is intended as lighthearted entertainment, the use of animals on set is a serious matter. Donkeys, being prey animals, are naturally anxious. The lights, sounds, and commotion typical of show sets can be disorienting and frightening for them. It’s clear to viewers that an animal should not be confined to a small space surrounded by waste."

Additionally, PETA noted that donkeys are social animals and thrive in a herd environment. The organization also addressed claims that Sadavarte kept the donkey for research related to milk, clarifying that donkeys only produce milk for their foals.

The letter was sent to Salman Khan, Viacom 18 (the network behind Colors), and Banijay Asia (the production company). It concluded by highlighting that societal views have shifted, and the public now finds the use of animals for entertainment to be sad rather than amusing. PETA urged the producers to demonstrate compassion and respect for animals by adopting the recommendations outlined in their letter.

It’s worth noting that this isn’t the first time Bigg Boss has featured animals. Previous seasons have included a dog, a parrot, and even a fish as part of the housemates' daily activities.