In a world where spectacle often overshadows substance, Lahore-based lion trainer Bilal Hussain Khan stands as a rare symbol of tradition, trust, and generational pride.
Born into Pakistan’s iconic Lucky Irani Circus, Khan did not choose the lions’ arena — it chose him. In this exclusive interview with Samaa Digital, he reflects on a legacy that began decades before him, the bond between humans and lions, and his unwavering mission to carry Pakistan’s name to the world through compassion, discipline, and faith.
Legacy that began in 1969
“The Lions Show is not merely a performance for my family — it is a legacy,” says the 30-year-old ringmaster and lion trainer at Lucky Irani Circus. That legacy began in 1969, when his grandfather first introduced the lions’ act in Pakistan.
Growing up backstage, Bilal watched his father perform with confidence and calm. Even as a child, one question stayed with him: could he carry forward the name of his father and grandfather — and represent Pakistan with honour on a global stage?
Third generation, shared responsibility
Today, Bilal proudly stands as the third generation of this tradition that he took over at the age of 10. The legacy extends beyond his father and grandfather to his uncles — and notably, to his mother, who holds the distinction of being Pakistan’s first woman to participate in a Lions Show with the circus.
“This was never just one person’s journey,” he tells Samaa Digital. “It is a family responsibility.”
Growing up among lions
From childhood, Bilal’s life unfolded among lions. “To us, lions are not just animals — they are part of our family,” he explains. Raised with patience and respect, the animals are kept in environments designed to make them feel safe and protected.
That sense of security, he says, is the foundation of trust — and trust is the cornerstone of their work.
Over the years, Bilal has personally trained between one and 12 lions and tigers at a time, starting from cubs as young as two months old to mature lions aged eight to 12 years.
Training typically takes two to six months, he says, depending on the animal’s age, temperament, and health. While his forefathers were his first teachers, Bilal also spent five years training under Thailand’s renowned ringmaster and wild animal trainer Sanya Intakanok.
Care, diet, medical supervision
Each lion consumes six to 10 kilograms of fresh beef daily, along with milk and continuous access to clean drinking water. Veterinary doctors remain on standby 24 hours a day, and any sign of illness is treated immediately.
Importantly, Bilal clarifies that the actual Lions Show lasts no more than 10 minutes. For the rest of the time, the animals remain in calm, restful spaces designed for their comfort.
“There is a common misconception that lions in circuses are harmed or forced. This is entirely false,” Bilal says firmly. According to him, no professional trainer can train a lion through violence.
“A lion is the king of the jungle. The real secret is love, trust, and mutual respect,” he adds. Today, the circus also breeds lions responsibly, rather than acquiring them externally, ensuring controlled environments and proper care.
Bilal notes with pride that there has never been a single incident in Pakistan where a circus lion caused harm to the public. Raised among humans and treated as companions, the animals pose no danger, he says.
“I have never been harmed by any lion,” he shares with Samaa Digital. “For me, they are like my children — and no child harms their parent.”
Pakistan’s name beyond borders
Bilal’s vision extends far beyond the ring. Recently, a European writer published an article about his work, an achievement he sees as recognition not just for himself, but for the circus and Pakistan.
He has also appealed to the Pakistan government to formally recognize and support Lions Shows. With proper regulation, he believes this art can become a cultural ambassador, showcasing Pakistan’s discipline, heritage, and talent worldwide.
“This skill is a blessing from Allah Almighty,” Bilal reflects, “passed down through generations.” From childhood, he says, his family learned not dominance over lions, but friendship.
As his story comes full circle, one principle remains unchanged — a belief tested over decades in the ring and beyond: love is the greatest training method of all.
