Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s third-term swearing-in ceremony, held at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Sunday, drew 8,000 guests, including foreign leaders, dignitaries, business magnates, and celebrities, creating a spectacle of political grandeur. However, amidst the high-profile proceedings, an unexpected guest stole the spotlight.
A viral video captured the moment when BJP MP Durga Das Uikey greeted President Droupadi Murmu after the swearing-in ceremony. In the background, a mysterious cat-like creature was spotted, sparking wild speculation on social media. Was it a leopard, an ordinary cat, or perhaps a dog? The video ignited a frenzy of theories about the unidentified animal strolling through the presidential palace.
Addressing the speculation, a senior official from the Delhi forest and wildlife department clarified to TOI, “The animal in the video is not a leopard. The animal looks like a dog or cat,” putting an end to the mystery surrounding the creature’s identity.
Interestingly, the President’s Estate, spanning 330 acres, is renowned for its rich biodiversity, boasting diverse flora and fauna. The estate features open spaces, forests, parks, gardens, fruit trees, and water bodies, creating a thriving ecosystem within its boundaries.
A notable highlight is the 75-acre nature trail aimed at promoting nature conservation awareness. This trail showcases both managed and natural ecosystems, connecting Rashtrapati Bhavan’s gardens through well-laid paths. Among its attractions are a pond ecosystem, butterfly corner, mango orchard, peacock point, and a forest area. Remarkably, the trail is home to 136 plant species and 84 animal species, including frogs, lizards, and snakes, highlighting the estate’s vibrant wildlife.
While the viral video sparked curiosity and speculation, it also shed light on the ecological richness of the President’s Estate, serving as a reminder of the importance of preserving India’s natural heritage.
