Mufasa, a lion trapped in a Peruvian circus for over 20 years, endured unimaginable suffering. Chained in the bed of a rusty pickup truck, he lived a life of neglect and confinement. In 2015, Animal Defenders International (ADI) rescued him during a major operation to enforce Peru’s ban on wild animals in circuses. Mufasa was one of the last animals freed.

His rescue wasn’t easy, as circus owners resisted. After weeks of negotiation, ADI secured his release. Mufasa was taken to a sanctuary, where he finally experienced freedom—grass under his paws, trees for shade, and an open sky. His once-dull eyes sparkled with newfound peace.

Tragically, Mufasa passed away a few months later from kidney failure caused by years of mistreatment. His story underscores the cruelty of exploiting wild animals for entertainment and highlights the importance of organizations like ADI in fighting for animal welfare.