The Zoo

Recently, I took my nephew and niece to this wonderfully maintained Katraj Snake Park or Rajiv Gandhi Zoological and Wildlife Research Centre, Pune. For me this was the first step in introducing them to the beauty of wildlife and generating a sense of respect for nature. I ensured they display their best behaviour and observe unique jungle jewels from a distance. Because experiences like these, if guided thoughtfully, can inspire a deeper connection with the animal kingdom.

But honestly speak, I don’t like the concept of Zoo, largely because of the way people behave in these places. Visitors, both young and small, often yell, scream and create unnecessary chaos. This lack of respect and empathy for the wildlife is deeply troubling and one of the reasons I tend to avoid such places. 

Once they were created as a place of private animal collection by the wealthy to flaunt their power. Now they have become a major tourist hotspot, where people enter and exhibit their worst behaviour. Ideally, everyone should visit a wildlife sanctuary at least once in their lifetime to witness animals in their natural habitat. Such experiences reveal the stark contrast between creatures that roam freely and those that struggle to survive.

However, not everyone can afford a safari, as even a single day visit might create a dent in their pockets. Which is why, I also believe these Zoos should exist but evolve into mini-sanctuaries that prioritize animal welfare. The caretakers should educate visitors about the need for empathy and coexistence. Strict rules, better enforcement, and awareness campaigns could address many of the issues we see today.