PV Sindhu has praised a “uniquely Indian” strategy to keep monkeys away from the BWF World Championships venue in New Delhi, calling it both amusing and effective
As BWF World Championships 2026 returns to New Delhi after nearly two decades, preparations at the venue have taken an unusual and distinctly local turn.
To prevent disruptions from monkeys, organisers have turned to an unconventional but effective method, one that has even impressed India’s star shuttler PV Sindhu.
Calling it a “uniquely Indian” solution, Sindhu has backed the move, which involves hiring trained professionals to mimic langur calls to keep monkeys away from the stadium.
A problem rooted in past disruptions
The decision did not come out of the blue. Earlier this year, the India Open in Delhi faced embarrassing interruptions when monkeys were spotted inside the stadium, drawing global attention and criticism.
With the World Championships scheduled from August 17 to 23, organisers were determined to avoid a repeat of such incidents and ensure a smooth experience for players and spectators.
The ‘monkey whisperers’ strategy explained
To tackle the issue, authorities have deployed trained individuals often referred to as “monkey whisperers”. Their job is to imitate the calls of langurs, a species that rhesus macaques naturally fear.
By recreating these sounds around the venue, the mimics can effectively deter monkeys without causing harm.
More from SportsThe approach may sound unusual, but it is rooted in animal behaviour. Monkeys instinctively avoid langurs, making this a humane and non-invasive solution.
PV Sindhu’s reaction: “you can laugh, but love the effort”
Sindhu reacted with a mix of amusement and appreciation.
“You can laugh at the solution, but you have to love the effort,” she said, praising the extensive behind-the-scenes work being done to ensure the event runs smoothly.
She also described the approach as “uniquely Indian”, highlighting how local challenges are being addressed with creative, homegrown solutions.
Her comments reflect a broader sentiment among athletes who recognise the scale of preparations required to host a global sporting event.
More than just monkeys: a full venue overhaul
The monkey deterrent is only one part of a larger effort to upgrade the venue.
Organisers have implemented a range of measures, including:
- Anti-pigeon solutions to prevent bird interference
- Improved infrastructure and hygiene facilities
- Enhanced entry systems and crowd management
- Upgraded lighting and playing conditions
These steps aim to deliver a world-class experience and restore confidence after earlier criticisms.
Why this matters for India’s global sporting image
Hosting the World Championships is a significant moment for India, especially as the country looks to position itself as a reliable venue for major international sporting events.
By addressing even the smallest operational challenges, including wildlife interference, organisers are signalling their intent to meet global standards.
The use of a locally rooted solution has also drawn attention for its ingenuity, blending tradition with modern event management.