For 35 years, Kaavan, Pakistan’s only Asian elephant, endured a life of loneliness and mistreatment at Marghazar Zoo in Islamabad.
Forced to perform for crowds in exchange for meager rewards, he suffered physical and emotional wounds, with his only companion, Saheli, passing away in 2012, leaving him in a state of despair.
But Kaavan’s fortunes changed when global icon Cher intervened, leading a campaign to free him from his dismal existence.
Moved by the outcry on social media, Cher co-founded Free The Wild and rallied support for Kaavan’s rescue. In May 2020, Islamabad’s High Court ordered his release, marking a turning point in his life.
With the assistance of Four Paws and Dr. Amir Khalil, Kaavan was relocated to a wildlife sanctuary in Cambodia, where he could finally experience the freedom and care he deserved.
Despite initial challenges during transport, including his obesity and aggression, Kaavan adapted to his new surroundings, rediscovering his instincts and finding joy in the company of other elephants.
Today, Kaavan thrives at the Kulen Prum Tep Wildlife Sanctuary in Siem Reap, Cambodia, enjoying spacious enclosures, baths in his pond, and the companionship of fellow elephants.
While his journey to recovery continues, his transformation from the “world’s loneliest elephant” to a symbol of resilience and hope inspires all.
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