Alipore Zoo

How many years can a tortoise live? Let me tell you a story about Alipore Zoo. Right here in Kolkata, at Alipore Zoo, lived a giant Aldabra tortoise named Adwaita. He was a celebrity, a symbol of the zoo’s remarkable history. Alipore Zoo, also known as the Zoological Garden, Alipore, is India’s oldest formally stated zoo. It opened its gates in 1876, a transformation from Governor General Richard Wellesley’s private menagerie in Barrackpore. Alipore Zoo quickly became a beloved Kolkata landmark. It attracted visitors eager to witness magnificent creatures like Royal Bengal tigers, Asiatic lions, and the one and only Adwaita. Adwaita wasn’t just any tortoise. He arrived at Alipore Zoo as a gift and lived there for an astounding amount of time, potentially over 250 years. Imagine, this tortoise witnessed centuries of change, residing in the zoo through two World Wars, India’s independence, and countless other historical events. He became a living testament to the zoo’s commitment to animal care, a symbol of longevity and resilience. Alipore Zoo also holds the distinction of being one of the first zoos to successfully breed white tigers and reticulated giraffes. It played a critical role in saving the Manipur brow-antlered deer from extinction. The zoo wasn’t without its challenges. Controversy arose over cramped conditions and breeding practices. The zoo responded with reforms, downsizing to prioritize animal comfort and expanding open-air enclosures. It even introduced virtual tours during the COVID-19 pandemic and upgraded safety measures after a tiger in a New York zoo tested positive for the virus. Today, Alipore Zoo continues to thrive, attracting millions of visitors each year. Its unique history, combined with its diverse collection of animals, makes it a treasured destination. So, the next time you find yourself at Alipore Zoo, gazing at the magnificent creatures within its walls, remember Adwaita. He embodies the zoo’s long and fascinating journey. He reminds us that within these walls, stories unfold, history whispers, and life, in all its forms, continues to amaze.