The lonely life and death of Delhi's only African elephant

19 September 2025

Image: Elephant by Lucas Metz, via Unsplash (illustrative purposes)

Delhi

Animal welfare groups in India are mourning the passing of Shankar, the only African elephant at Delhi Zoo, who spent much of his life in isolation. The 29-year-old male elephant stopped eating and collapsed on Wednesday, and despite veterinary efforts, passed away within 40 minutes.

Shankar endured a long life largely alone, including at least 13 years in solitary confinement. The cause of death has not yet been determined, and an investigation has been ordered, according to zoo director Sanjeet Kumar. For full details, read the article by Abhishek Dey at BBC News: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx2nlevy2gpo