Nepal to Gift Elephants to Qatar: Symbol of Bilateral Relations

In a gesture of diplomatic goodwill and cultural exchange, the government of Nepal is set to present a pair of elephants to the Gulf nation of Qatar. The majestic creatures, named ‘Rudrakali’ and ‘Khagendraprasad,’ are slated to be gifted during the upcoming visit of Qatar’s King Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani to Nepal on 11-12 Baisakh, 2080 Bikram Sambat. These revered elephants will be transported with care by Qatar Airways to their new home.

The decision to gift the elephants stems from a commitment made by Nepal during the state visit of then-President Bidya Devi Bhandari to Qatar in Bikram Samvat 2075. While falcons were also part of the initial gift plan, Qatar gracefully declined the offer, emphasizing their interest in the pachyderms.

“We have advanced the preparations to hand them over during the Qatari king’s visit to Nepal. Preparations are being made to sign the agreement to transport the elephants,” stated Badriraj Dhungana, spokesperson of the Ministry of Forestry. However, a formal decision from the Council of Ministers is pending regarding the gifting process.

A Nepali technical team has already conducted assessments regarding the environmental conditions for Nepali elephants in Qatar, ensuring their well-being in their new habitat. Additionally, Qatar has expressed the need for veterinarians and mahouts familiar with elephant care, promising to provide government service facilities similar to those enjoyed by their own employees.

‘Rudrakali’ and ‘Khagendra Prasad,’ residents of the Elephant Breeding and Training Center in Khorsor, Chitwan National Park, are well-trained and ready for their new journey. The pair, born to proud mothers Poojakali and Koshikali respectively, with Ronaldo as their father, exhibit friendly behavior, making them ideal attractions for visitors.

Upon arrival at Alkhor Zoo in Qatar, these magnificent elephants will join a diverse collection of 315 animals representing 49 different species. The zoo boasts various recreational facilities, including parks and playgrounds for sports enthusiasts. ‘Khagendra Prasad’ weighs an impressive 1190 kg, while ‘Rudrakali’ tips the scales at 1200 kg, as confirmed by Dil Bahadur Purja Pun, head of Chitwan Park.

As preparations for the elephants’ journey progress, both Nepal and Qatar anticipate the strengthening of bilateral ties through this unique exchange, highlighting the enduring friendship between the two nations.