Nagpur: The ongoing Tajbagh fair has an unusual star this year, and it’s not a celebrity or a performer, but a donkey named Pannalal, who has been making waves with his so-called fortune-telling abilities. Owned by Khalel Ahmed Pathan, Pannalal has become the fair’s highlight, drawing crowds eager to witness his mysterious talent for uncovering hidden truths.
For just ₹20, spectators are treated to a unique spectacle where Pannalal takes center stage. During each performance, Khalel asks Pannalal humorous yet pointed questions, such as “Who’s got a secret lover here? Who’s the genius in the room? Who’s the mama’s boy?” Incredibly, Pannalal trots over to pick his answers, leaving the audience in awe. Khalel claims Pannalal boasts an impressive 90% accuracy rate, attributing this to rigorous training. However, when pressed for details on the training methods, Khalel remains tight-lipped, citing it as a “family trade secret.”
Pannalal’s care routine is as extraordinary as his talents. His diet includes chana, ghaas, and lentils, ensuring that he is treated like royalty. Khalel’s family, originally from Amravati, has been touring the country with their act, captivating audiences from Telangana to their next destination in Butibori for the upcoming Ganeshotsav.
At 18 years old, Pannalal is approaching the typical retirement age for donkeys, which is around 25 years. Yet, Khalel is already preparing for the future, hinting at plans to train another donkey to take over Pannalal’s role.
With such a unique talent and dedicated fan base, Pannalal proves that even a donkey can be a star, leaving a lasting impression on all who encounter him. So, the next time someone calls you a ‘donkey,’ you might just want to take it as a compliment.
