White tiger moved from Chennai to Udaipur understands only Tamil, leaving zookeepers in a fix
Officials said either the big cat would have to be taught commands in Mewari or the caretakers would have to speak its language.
A language barrier appears to be causing problems in the relocation of a white tiger from Chennai to Udaipur, Hindustan Times reported. Officials said five-year-old Rama from Arignar Anna Zoological Park in Chennai only understands Tamil. He is being moved to the Sajjangarh Biological Park as part of an exchange programme. Two wolves will be sent to Chennai from Jodhpur and Jaipur.
For now, Rama's caretaker Chellan is accompanying him to his new home, The News Minute reported. Officials said, "Either the tiger learns Mewari language or the caretakers here learn Tamil.”
The Central Zoo Authority approved the exchange that is expected to increase footfall and revenue at the Udaipur park. Chief conservator of forests, Udaipur, Rahul Bhatnagar said, “We already have a female tigress, Damini, brought in from the Pune zoo last year. The presence of male tiger will help in improving the tiger population.”