Sudha Murty Advocates for Animal Compassion in Bengaluru Podcast
In a heartfelt appeal, philanthropist and Rajya Sabha MP Sudha Murty has called upon the public to demonstrate greater compassion towards animals, with a particular focus on street dogs. Speaking as part of a podcast hosted by Bengaluru police, Murty emphasized the importance of regular feeding and care for these vulnerable creatures, weaving in personal anecdotes and philosophical insights.
Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam: The World as One Family
Murty eloquently discussed the ancient Indian concept of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, which translates to "the world is one family." She expanded this idea beyond human relationships, stating, "Not just humans, birds, animals and plants make a family. That is why we term it Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam." This holistic view underscores her belief in interconnectedness among all living beings.
The Special Bond with Dogs
Highlighting the unique relationship between humans and dogs, Murty remarked, "Please remember that among animals, the dog is very close to human beings. Dogs require love more than food. They understand you. When you are angry, they understand; when you are happy, they understand." She shared a touching story about her Golden Retriever, Gopi, whom she affectionately calls her "grandson."
Narrating an incident, she said, "One day, I was walking on the road, and Gopi, who was coming with someone else on the other side, saw me. Suddenly, he crossed the road and ran towards me. I panicked, thinking a speeding vehicle could hit him. But for Gopi, it was pure love." This anecdote illustrates the deep emotional connections that can form between pets and their owners.
Benefits of Pets and Caring for Strays
Murty pointed out the advantages of having pets, especially for children's development. "It is beneficial for children to grow up around pets," she noted, as it fosters empathy and responsibility. However, recognizing that not everyone can keep a dog at home, she encouraged people to extend their kindness to stray animals in their neighborhoods.
She offered practical advice for caring for street dogs: "When you cook rice, please add one cup in their name; when you make roti or chapati, make one extra for them." Murty described the harsh realities faced by strays, saying, "Street dogs wander from place to place looking for food. They sleep in drains and open spaces; please have a kind heart towards them."
A Call to Action for Animal Welfare
Through her message, Sudha Murty aims to inspire a cultural shift towards greater animal welfare in urban areas like Bengaluru. Her appeal is rooted in both personal experience and ethical principles, urging communities to take small, consistent steps—such as providing food—to improve the lives of street animals. This initiative aligns with broader efforts to promote compassion and sustainability in city living.
