Sensemaker Why is there controversy surrounding India’s mega zoo?
Dec 8, 2025
A mega zoo in India claims to house over 150,000 animals, stirring up controversy. Key discussions include celebrity visits and the lavish Ambani wedding hosted there. Investigations reveal alarming animal import data, particularly concerning rare species like the Spix macaw and imports from the DRC. Experts highlight the illegal wildlife trade's brutality and the implications of corrupt practices. CITES reports raise red flags about India's due diligence, all while the zoo prepares for its public opening despite ongoing scrutiny.
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Celebrity-Studded Launch Event
- The Ambani pre-wedding at Vantara featured global VIPs like Mark Zuckerberg and Ivanka Trump in animal-print dress code.
- The event highlighted Vantara as a lavish, high-profile wildlife attraction tied to India's richest family.
Massive Import Surge Revealed
- Customs data show an unprecedented surge: more than 52,000 animals imported to Vantara from 40 countries since mid-2022.
- The scale raises concerns about sourcing, conservation impact, and whether such imports are sustainable.
Controversial Spix's Macaw Transfer
- Vantara imported 26 Spix's macaws bred in Germany that are extinct in the wild and extremely valuable.
- Reports say the birds moved to India without Brazil's permission, prompting CITES concern over possible commercial transfer.