The condition of Bharat (L5), the 4.6-year-old male Asiatic lion shifted from Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) to Balasaheb Thackeray Gorewada International Zoological Park in Nagpur for advanced treatment, has deteriorated, Forest Department sources told mid-day.
A Gorewada official said, “The lion’s condition remains extremely critical, and there has been no improvement in its health parameters so far.’
Hind paresis
The lion in critical condition and reportedly refusing food
Preliminary observations reveal Bharat is unable to stand due to severe hind limb paresis (partial weakness). He has completely stopped eating and is currently being kept alive on intravenous (IV) fluids under round-the-clock monitoring.
Earlier injury
Bharat was brought to SGNP from Sakkarbaug Zoological Garden in January 2025 under an approved animal exchange programme. In April 2025, the lion began showing signs of abnormal walking involving the hind quarters. An X-ray conducted under anaesthesia later revealed an old fracture near the ilio-sacral junction.
Viral attack
Bharat seen with a severe eye infection during treatment at SGNP. Pics/Special Arrangement
In March 2026, the lion tested positive for Feline Panleukopenia, a highly contagious viral disease affecting domestic and wild feline species. Despite treatment and monitoring, the animal did not fully recover.
Eye complications
Towards the end of April 2026, swelling and prolapse of the nictitating membrane in the eye region were observed along with anorexia and wounds on both right limbs. Senior veterinary experts and a veterinary ophthalmology specialist from Mumbai reviewed the case, while sonography and further tests were conducted.
Urgent transit
Suspecting systemic illness and blood parasitic infections, authorities rushed Bharat to Nagpur via an air-conditioned ambulance on May 22. Medical samples have been dispatched for advanced testing to trace the exact cause of the illness.
