The City of Nawabs is all set to welcome a new king of the jungle! An Asiatic Lion is Lucknow-bound as part of the Wildlife Exchange Programme, straight from Tirupati. The lion's arrival will also mark the World Lion Day celebrations at Lucknow Zoo.

The Asiatic Lion is arriving from Shri Venkateshwar Zoological Park in Tirupati, which has already given a 'no objection certificate' regarding the exchange. Having said that, both zoos are waiting for the formal approval of the Central Zoo Authority.

Furthermore, the decision to bring a Lion to Lucknow Zoo has also been taken because of the recent demise of a Lion named 'Prithvi'. It is noteworthy that 'Prithvi' was at the zoo since 2015.

The Lucknow Zoo authorities are carrying out a 2-day celebration of the World Lion Day. On Wednesday, officials conducted an awareness rally where visitors were informed about the lifestyle of the king of the jungle and its importance in the food chain.

And once the CZA gives the formal nod, the arrival of a new Asiatic Lion will complete the World Lion Day celebrations at the zoo. As for wildlife enthusiasts in the city, they now have another major reason to plan a Lucknow Zoo visit.