11 Exotic Animals Seized in Erode Following Video of Actor Vikram

The Tamil Nadu Forest Department has seized 11 exotic animals from an Erode facility linked to exotic-animal trader S K Keshavanathan, following an investigation triggered by a viral video of actor Vikram at the Chennai residence of businessman C K Ranganathan.

The video, posted on Instagram, showed the actor cuddling a pair of Lar gibbons. The footage prompted forest officials to trace the origin and movement of the gibbons, leading them to inspect Keshavanathan's facility, where they found a collection of exotic birds, mammals, and reptiles.

The seized animals include seven African servals—comprising two adult males, two adult females, and three kittens—along with a male and female Lar gibbon and a pair of tufted capuchins.

All 11 animals have been placed under seizure and are currently being kept at the facility under the supervision of forest officials. They may eventually be transferred to the Arignar Anna Zoological Park in Vandalur or another recognised rescue centre, subject to court directions.

According to officials, Keshavanathan initially appeared before the Erode District Forest Officer and assured authorities that he would cooperate with the inquiry and submit the required documentation. However, he subsequently went absconding, prompting officials to step up efforts to trace his whereabouts.

The Forest Department has registered a wildlife offence case and is examining the source of the animals, the chain of transfers, and whether mandatory possession, transfer, and birth declarations were made as required by law.

Investigators are also looking into how the exotic species were brought to the facility and whether any were transferred to third parties, including individuals in Chennai. The Lar gibbon is listed under CITES Appendix I and holds the highest level of international protection, with officials noting that violations involving protected species attract stringent action under the Wildlife Protection Act.