Bangladeshi authorities step in to prevent the planned sacrifice of an albino buffalo nicknamed "Donald Trump" during Eidul Azha, highlighting the cultural trend of celebrity-inspired sacrificial animals.
An albino buffalo with a distinctive white mane resembling US President Donald Trump's iconic hairstyle has been saved from ritual slaughter after Bangladeshi officials intervened. The buffalo, named “Donald Trump” by its farm owner due to a tuft of hair on its forehead, had gained national and international attention for its unique appearance.
The animal, which weighs nearly 700 kilograms, became an unexpected viral sensation in recent weeks, drawing crowds daily to photograph it at a farm near Dhaka. Social media platforms and international news outlets featured the buffalo, making it one of Bangladesh's most talked-about attractions before Eidul Azha. Despite its popularity, the animal had already been sold for sacrifice during the holiday.
However, local broadcaster Channel 24 the Home Ministry requested authorities to halt the planned slaughter after the buffalo’s fame surged nationwide. As a result, the buffalo was returned to the farm where it had been raised. Farm owner Ziauddin Mridha albino buffaloes are rare in Bangladesh, and he named the animal “Donald Trump” after his younger brother noticed the tuft of hair on its forehead.
The incident highlights how viral sacrificial animals with celebrity-inspired names have become increasingly common in Bangladesh's Eid cattle market culture. The buffalo’s calm demeanor and unique appearance made it a symbol of curiosity and fascination for many visitors, who traveled from various parts of the country to see the animal before the holiday.
This intervention by officials underscores the growing public sentiment against such practices, as well as the importance of protecting animals that have gained significant attention due to their unique characteristics.
