The trailer for the documentary of Pakistani elephant, Kaavan’s journey to freedom is now out. Titled ‘Cher and the Loneliest Elephant‘ the documentary follows American popstar Cher’s efforts to bring the Asian elephant from a zoo in Pakistan to a sanctuary in Cambodia.
After spending nearly all his 35 years in captivity, Kaavan was moved to the Kulen Prum Tep wildlife sanctuary in Cambodia’s Oddor Meanchey. He’s now a star, as his story has gone global.
Currently, he’s starring in his own documentary, Cher and the Loneliest Elephant. The documentary trailer is a tearjerker, with Cher taking viewers on an emotional journey.
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Cher and the Loneliest Elephant’s release date is slated for 22nd April 22 on Paramount+. The Smithsonian Channel documentary will follow Cher’s travel to Pakistan to rescue Kaavan. At the time the Asian bull elephant had spent almost his entire life in captivity of the Islamabad Zoo. As a gift from Sri Lanka, Kavaan arrived in Pakistan in 1985, as a year-old calf.
The documentary will also feature a track by the singer titled Walls to highlight Kavaan’s story.
The Loneliest Elephant – From Captivity to Cambodia
Many species form lasting bonds that are important to their long-term health. When removed from established social groups, these animals can not adjust to captivity. The situation in Pakistan’s zoos is particularly concerning with additional neglect.
“Elephants are just like we are. They’re so family-oriented and so emotional,” Cher says in the trailer.
Initially, Kaavan lived at Marghazar Zoo in Islamabad with his partner Saheli. However, when Saheli died in 2012, Kaavan became ‘the world’s loneliest elephant.’
Aside from mental and emotional distress, he suffered from several health issues.
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Cher, along with other animal rights activists, fought a long legal battle, which led to the Islamabad High Court ruling that Kaavan should be sent to a Cambodian wildlife sanctuary, in May 2020.
The 35-year-old Asian bull elephant was moved to Cambodia’s Siem Reap province from Pakistan by a chartered plane on 30th November. Soon after he was transported to Kulen Prum Tep wildlife sanctuary.
In December, the Ministry of Environment spokesperson, Neth Pheaktra has told APP that Kaavan had recovered health-wise and quickly adjusted to his new home in Cambodia.
