A sloth bear named by Julia Roberts after being rescued from abuse in India is now thriving.
A sloth bear named by Hollywood star Julia Roberts is flourishing 17 years after being rescued from a life of abuse in India. The bear, called Odum, was saved from people who forced him to dance for tourists and kept him in a cage when he was not performing. Now 26 years old, he lives at the Bannerghatta Bear Rescue Centre in India, where he continues to receive specialized care.
Julia Roberts Named The Bear Odum During Her Visit To India
Roberts was filming Eat, Pray, Love in India in 2009 when she visited an animal sanctuary and met the rescued sloth bear. During her visit, she gave him the name Odum, which is believed to be an old family name.
At the time, Odum had been rescued from the cruel practice of forcing bears to perform for tourists. The animals were made to dance for entertainment and spent the rest of their time confined in cages.
Seventeen years later, International Animal Rescue has released new pictures of Odum to show how far he has come. The charity shared the images ahead of World Sloth Bear Day on October 12, highlighting both his recovery and the long-term commitment required to care for rescued wildlife.
Odum now lives at the Bannerghatta Bear Rescue Centre, which is part of the Wildlife SOS rescue network in India. His story offers a reminder of how animals can recover from abuse when they receive a safe environment and consistent care.
Rescuers Say Odum Still Needs Specialized Care
According to sanctuary staff, Odum's life today is much calmer than it was before his rescue. He can spend his days eating ripe muskmelons, splashing around in his pool, or resting in a hammock specially made for him.
Alan Knight, president of International Animal Rescue, said Odum's story shows what rescue operations can achieve. However, he also stressed that an animal's needs do not end once it has been brought to safety.
As Odum grows older, he will continue to need patience, kindness, and specialized care, Knight explained. The same commitment that helped him recover after his rescue remains important to his well-being today.
Odum's story highlights the lasting impact of wildlife rescue efforts. Saving an animal is only the beginning. Providing a safe home and ensuring its needs are met throughout its life are just as important.
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