Lioness Indhu, rescued from a circus 20 years ago, dies at Tirupati Zoo due to age-related illness. She lived a safe life after rescue.

Lioness Indhu Dies at Tirupati Zoo After 20 Years of Rescue

🦁 Lioness Indhu’s Peaceful Journey Ends

The Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park (Tirupati Zoo) has lost one of its most beloved animals — Lioness Indhu, who passed away on August 19, 2025, after battling age-related illness. Indhu was rescued from a circus in 2004 and had spent over 20 years at the zoo, living in safety and care.

📜 From Circus Life to Sanctuary

• Indhu was one of several lions rescued from cruel circus environments where animals were forced to perform.
• The Central Zoo Authority (CZA) and animal welfare groups helped relocate her to Tirupati Zoo.
• At the zoo, she was given open enclosures, proper diet, and veterinary care, allowing her to live a far healthier and stress-free life.

🩺 Cause of Death

Zoo authorities reported that Indhu had been suffering from age-related complications for the past few months. Despite continuous veterinary monitoring and treatment, her health gradually declined.

On August 19 morning, she was found weak and unable to move. The veterinary team confirmed her death later in the day.

🌿 Indhu’s Life at Tirupati Zoo

• Indhu became a symbol of rescue and rehabilitation.
• She was housed in a large safari enclosure, giving visitors a glimpse of lions living closer to their natural habitat.
• Zoo officials noted that Indhu helped spread awareness about wildlife conservation, especially among children and students visiting the zoo.

👥 Statements from Officials

Dr. S. Vijay Kumar, Curator of Tirupati Zoo, said:

“Indhu was a gentle lioness who adjusted well to the zoo environment. She lived much longer than many lions rescued from circuses. Her death is a big loss for us.”

Animal activists also recalled Indhu’s story as an example of why circuses using wild animals must be banned permanently.

📊 About Tirupati Zoo

• Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park, spread over 5,500 acres, is one of Asia’s largest zoos.
• It is home to lions, tigers, leopards, elephants, deer, and many bird species.
• The zoo has been actively involved in rescue, rehabilitation, and conservation projects.

Indhu’s story stands as proof of the zoo’s commitment to giving rescued animals a dignified life.

🙏 Public Response

News of Indhu’s death drew emotional responses from frequent zoo visitors and wildlife lovers. Many recalled watching her on school trips and family visits.

Social media posts flooded with condolences, with one visitor writing:
“Indhu taught us compassion for animals. May she rest in peace.”

The passing of Lioness Indhu at Tirupati Zoo marks the end of a two-decade journey that transformed her life from abuse in a circus to care and dignity in a sanctuary. Her story is a reminder of why animal welfare laws are important and why every rescued creature deserves compassion.

Om Namo Venkatesaya 🙏