Tirupati: The SV Zoological Park (SVZP) has announced the death of Indhu, a 23-year-old lioness and one of its most remarkable residents, on Tuesday.

Indhu was among 18 lions rescued from the National Circus in Thane back in 2002. She was only eight months old when she arrived at SVZP and went on to outlive all her companions from that group, reaching an age considered exceptional for a captive lion.

According to SVZP officials, Indhu had been under intensive veterinary care in recent weeks as her health declined due to age-related complications.

Despite all efforts, she passed away peacefully on August 26.

A post-mortem examination conducted by the SV Veterinary University confirmed the cause of death as natural, arising from geriatric ailments.

“Indhu’s journey from a circus enclosure to a naturalistic habitat at SVZP reflects the essence of animal rescue and rehabilitation.

She was given a safe, peaceful home for over two decades, and her longevity is testimony to the quality of care she received here,” the zoo said in a statement.

Lionesses in captivity generally live between 16 and 20 years, making Indhu’s 23 years a rare achievement.

Zoo officials highlighted her story as a symbol of resilience and compassionate wildlife management.

Over the years, Indhu became a quiet emblem of the zoo’s conservation work, admired by keepers and visitors alike.

Her passing, they said, marks the end of an important chapter in SVZP’s history of big cat rehabilitation.