Delhi's BWF prep: Imported gear, non-toxic gel and langur calls to keep monkeys at bay

Monkey trouble at the venue

Delhi's Indira Gandhi Stadium is undergoing a major renovation ahead of the BWF World Championships, but the biggest challenge isn't the court surface or the lighting—it's the monkeys. Organisers have deployed 'monkey whisperers'—men skilled in mimicking the calls of langurs—to keep macaques away from the arena.

The langur's deep, resonant alarm calls are a natural deterrent for the smaller, bolder rhesus macaques that roam the stadium complex. These mimicry artists patrol the perimeter, periodically emitting sounds that signal danger to the troops. It's a low-tech solution to a very Delhi problem, and it's already drawing reactions from players.

Star shuttler PV Sindhu, when told about the three men making 'langur sounds' to prevent intruders, laughed and said, 'Can laugh…'—a light-hearted acknowledgment of the unusual measure.

Renovation with imported precision

The stadium itself is being transformed with imported machines and materials to meet international standards. Fresh court surfaces, precision lighting systems, and climate-control equipment have been brought in from abroad, ensuring the playing conditions match those of top-tier global events.

Beyond the visible upgrades, organisers are also applying a non-toxic gel around the venue's perimeter. This gel acts as a safe, chemical barrier that discourages monkeys from climbing walls or entering restricted zones, without harming the animals or the environment.

The renovation also includes double-door entries at all access points. These airlock-style doors create a buffer zone, making it nearly impossible for a stray monkey to slip in while players, officials, or spectators move through.

A city bracing for the world stage

Hosting the BWF Worlds is a big moment for Indian badminton. The capital is pulling out all stops—from high-tech equipment to age-old wildlife management tricks—to ensure the event runs smoothly. The combination of modern infrastructure and traditional know-how reflects the city's pragmatic approach to hosting a global championship.

Officials are confident that the measures will keep the venue secure, but they have not yet commented on contingency plans if the langur calls prove ineffective. For now, the focus remains on the sport, with the stadium ready to welcome the world's best shuttlers.

As the championship dates approach, all eyes will be on how these preparations hold up under the pressure of live competition—and whether the monkeys stay away.