An albino buffalo in Bangladesh, known as “Donald Trump” due to its distinctive blonde tuft of hair, has been spared from sacrifice during Eid al-Adha. This decision was made following last-minute intervention from the government, highlighting the animal’s unexpected popularity. The buffalo, which weighs nearly 700 kilograms, was reported to have been sold for ritual slaughter, but significant public interest prompted authorities to act before the sacrificial event.

Government Intervention and Animal Care

The Home Ministry of Bangladesh confirmed on Wednesday that the buffalo will be relocated to the National Zoo in Dhaka. A ministry official revealed that the Home Minister, Salahuddin Ahmed, ordered the animal’s protection. The buyer, who purchased the buffalo for sacrifice, is set to receive a refund. According to officials, the decision to save the buffalo was taken amidst growing concerns for public safety and the increased attention the animal was receiving from the public.

Mohammad Ruhul Quddus, the officer-in-charge at Keraniganj Police Station, expressed that authorities assessed the buffalo’s young age and potential longevity. He noted that the livestock department had requested the seizure of the buffalo from its owner, citing its rarity. The animal has been moved to the Bangladesh National Zoo, where a dedicated enclosure has been established for its care. Zoo curator Atiqur Rahman indicated that the buffalo would undergo a two-week quarantine period before being presented to the public.

How the Buffalo Gained Fame on Social Media

The buffalo is owned by Zia Uddin Mridha, a farmer who explained that the nickname “Trump” originated from a playful remark made by his younger brother. Initially intended as a joke, the buffalo’s unusual appearance captivated the public and transformed it into a national phenomenon. Mridha described how his farm attracted numerous visitors eager to see the animal, with people coming from various regions to capture photographs and videos.

Parents and children flocked to the farm, staying throughout the day to meet the now-famous buffalo, which Mridha characterised as exceptionally gentle and friendly. He highlighted that the buffalo required specialised care, including regular feeding and bathing. Despite the rising popularity of the buffalo, Mridha made the decision to sell it before Eid al-Adha, one of Bangladesh’s most significant religious holidays.

During Eid celebrations in Bangladesh, over 12 million livestock animals, including cows, goats, sheep, and buffaloes, are anticipated to be sacrificed. Albino buffaloes are particularly rare in the country, where darker cattle are much more common. While the buffalo’s distinctive looks undoubtedly contributed to its survival, many believe that the surge of public support played a pivotal role in its rescue from sacrifice.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share