Tragic Loss of Shankar: Delhi Zoo's Beloved African Elephant Dies

Shankar, a 29-year-old African elephant at Delhi Zoo, has passed away, prompting an investigation into his death. Beloved by many, Shankar faced health challenges due to musth over the years. His passing leaves a significant void, as the zoo community mourns the loss of this iconic creature.


Devdiscourse News Desk | New Delhi | Updated: 18-09-2025 16:01 IST | Created: 18-09-2025 16:01 IST
Tragic Loss of Shankar: Delhi Zoo's Beloved African Elephant Dies
Shankar
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Shankar, the sole African elephant residing at the Delhi Zoo, has died suddenly at the age of 29, triggering an investigation into the cause of his untimely demise, officials reported on Thursday.

Having arrived from Zimbabwe in 1998, Shankar was dearly loved and regarded as a symbol of strength and character. Despite no prior signs of illness up to September 16, his condition worsened the following day, leading to his collapse and subsequent death despite emergency interventions.

Shankar's health was complicated by recurring musth, a condition impacting male elephants' behavior, which led to episodes of aggression and subsequent chaining for management. As the zoo community and visitors mourn his loss, a thorough inquiry, including a post-mortem, is underway to determine the cause of death, with assistance from the IVRI Bareilly experts.

(With inputs from agencies.)

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