ORD Swraj Paul has been the honorary Patron of the Zoological Society of London and has funded major projects at the Regent’s Park site, including the Ambika Paul Children’s Zoo, named after his daughter who died of Luekemia at the age of 4 in London, in 1966.
Initially arriving in the city in search of treatment for his ailing daughter, Lord Paul never left London after her demise. Since then, creating memorable and fun places for children, especially in the London Zoo, has been one of his many passions.
Amazing experiences
Inspiring future generations through amazing experiences with wild animals, giving them a lifelong connection to wildlife and showing the part that they can play in wildlife conversation has been his and his late wife Lady Aruna Paul’s vision.
They created a memorable new entrance square in the heart of Regent’s Park which can be seen by millions of people every year who visit the place.
A stunning new play area for families to enjoy together has been made at the zoo. This space includes a wildlifeinspired indoor play experience, and event space for special activities, a multi-level climbing forest and an immersive digital and sensory play area.
In fact, play areas have been added all over at the London Zoo in new animal habitats.
Redevelopment Phase-II
Now Zoo Town destinations are on the to-do list of visitors. Former reptile house has been converted into ‘Zoo Town’, with a mini play street. Families can wander long, trying out experiments, looking at X-rays, visit the mini café or build a new part of the zoo in the construction zone. Each destination provides an opportunity to communicate exciting and engaging stories about ZSL’s work.
In the second phase of the redevelopment of the Lord and Lady Paul African Forest Reserve, an incredible new high ropes course will be introduced, which will embed adventurous play into the place. Children will be able to mimic the jumping and frolicking of colobus monkeys, featured in the restored Snowdon Aviary.
TIES THAT THE ZOO BINDS
The benevolence of Lord Swraj Paul, which saved the London Zoo from extinction, has had several admirers over the years who thank the good-hearted Lord for giving them a reason to connect with families. Herewith, a note of gratitude from Cherie Blair.
FAMILIES lie at the heart of every society, forming the foundation of our communities. Across generations, a visit to the zoo has always presented a delightful opportunity for families to bond, have fun, and gain knowledge about nature and the environment.
In the bustling city of London, the zoo has held a special place in the hearts of my children during their younger years. Today it continues to be a beloved destination for our growing family, including our grandchildren, ensuring that the tradition lives on. However, the significance of London Zoo extends beyond the joy it brings to countless families.
It holds a poignant story of one exceptional girl named Ambika Paul, whose memory is immortalized through a statue and fountain in the children’s zoo, with a statue of her father standing nearby. Ambika cherished this zoo, finding immense happiness during her time here when she arrived from India for leukaemia treatment at the tender age of two. Unfortunately, she passed away merely two years later.
Despite the profound loss, her family chose to stay in London and went on to become an influential force in both the domestic and international political and industrial landscape.
The Paul family, forever cognizant of the profound impact the zoo had on Ambika’s life, has shown extraordinary generosity as longstanding sponsors. Their benevolent donation in 1994 can be credited with saving the children’s zoo, a testament to their commitment. Under the guidance of Lord and Lady Paul the zoo has further expanded its offering now hosting the Angad Paul African Reserve since 2019. Lady Aruna herself will soon be honoured with a statue at the zoo, her presence deeply missed following her untimely passing last year, a sorrow that weighs heavily on the entire family. Each passing year, the Paul family graciously shares this wonderful day at London Zoo with other families creating lasting memories and spreading joy. We are immensely grateful to be able to attend once again this year as our family continues to grow and thrive. Cherie Blair”
