A social media post featuring Chiyaan Vikram and an exotic monkey has now landed the Tamil actor in a major controversy. The video, which showed Vikram interacting closely with a Lar Gibbon, a primate native to Southeast Asia, went viral on social media and sparked questions about the animal’s ownership and legal status in India.
As the species is protected under international wildlife-trade regulations, with the Lar Gibbon listed under Appendix I of CITES. Its possession and movement are subject to legal requirements and documentation.
The Tamil Nadu Forest Department has now initiated an inquiry into the animal and its possession. According to reports, the animal is owned by businessman CK Ranganathan, who is Vikram’s daughter Akshita’s father-in-law.
Reports claim that the animal was brought from Manipur to Erode in June after being purchased by Ranganathan. There have also been allegations online that the animal may have been trafficked from Southeast Asia.
However, these claims have not been independently established, and the authorities’ inquiry is expected to determine the facts. Importantly, there is currently no confirmed finding that Vikram himself committed any wildlife-law violation.
Chiyaan Vikram Cuddling with a Cute Gibbon.
“செல்லம்…” அன்பால் உருகும் சீயான் விக்ரம் மற்றும் குட்டி கிப்பன்!♥️ pic.twitter.com/RgGVGT5elW
— Nilla (@venillaray) August 9, 2026
