NEW DELHI — Determination takes many forms in sports management, and in New Delhi, it sounds like the call of a langur.
To ensure smooth operations at the upcoming BWF Badminton World Championships, scheduled from August 17 to 23, the Badminton Association of India (BAI) has implemented an innovative pest control measure: hiring three professional mimicry artists to imitate the vocalizations of langurs around the venue to deter local monkey populations.
The move comes as a preventive response following an incident during the India Open in January, where monkeys entered the spectator stands, causing panic and briefly interrupting proceedings. Because smaller monkeys harbour a deep-seated fear of aggressive langurs, sound mimicry offers a non-invasive deterrent.
Zafar, one of the three hired "monkey whisperers," explained the strategy behind the acoustic technique:
"Monkeys are absolutely terrified of langurs, which is why mimicking is so effective. I have served in several government offices, and the idea is not to harm the monkeys, but just to make sure they won't come," he stated.
PV Sindhu Applauds 'Uniquely Indian' Solution
Two-time Olympic medalist and top Indian shuttler PV Sindhu took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to comment on the unusual arrangement, urging fans to appreciate the intent behind the initiative.
"You can laugh at the solution, but you have to love the effort," Sindhu wrote. "So many people are working behind the scenes to make sure India is ready to welcome the world. Our solutions may be uniquely Indian, but so are our warmth, our spirit and our hospitality. Can't wait for the badminton world to experience it all in Delhi."
Evolution from Real Animals to Human Mimics
Deploying langur cues to manage Delhi's simian population is not without precedent, though the methodology has evolved over time. During the 2010 Commonwealth Games in New Delhi, authorities utilized live langurs attached to handlers to keep smaller monkeys at bay around sports venues and official facilities.
However, following government enforcement of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, the commercial employment of live langurs was banned in 2012. Since then, specialized human callers capable of mimicking langur vocalizations have emerged as the primary humane alternative across public institutions, government complexes, and international event venues in the capital.
India Hosts World Championship for the Second Time
The upcoming tournament marks only the second time India has hosted the prestigious BWF World Championships. The country previously staged the marquee event in 2009 at the Gachibowli Indoor Stadium in Hyderabad. With top international shuttlers arriving in the capital later this week, tournament organizers are confident that the combined efforts behind the scenes will deliver a seamless championship experience.
