A profoundly moving scene unfolded in the arid landscape of Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, where a newborn camel calf's display of unwavering devotion towards its deceased mother left nomadic shepherds and local residents emotionally overwhelmed. The calf steadfastly refused to abandon its mother's side for five long days, despite suffering severe injuries and having no sustenance.
A Tragic Birth and a Heartbreaking Vigil
The incident occurred in an oran (community grazing land) located approximately 3 kilometers from Sodhakor village in Jaisalmer district. According to villagers, a female camel died while giving birth, leaving the vulnerable newborn alone beside her lifeless body. For the next five days, the calf remained in a state of visible distress, circling the corpse and repeatedly attempting to nudge its mother awake with its head.
Adding to the tragedy, the calf was attacked by stray dogs just one day after its birth, sustaining serious wounds on its back and other body parts. Despite the pain and danger, it did not flee. Eyewitnesses reported seeing tears stream from the calf's eyes as it cried out loudly, a sight that deeply affected the shepherds and villagers who passed through the area.
Community Intervention and Rescue Mission
The plight of the calf eventually reached Jugal Kishor Asera, the secretary of the Jagdamba Seva Samiti Trust. Upon being informed by people from Sodhakor village, he mobilized a rescue team. Volunteers from the Bhadriya Gaushala (cattle shelter) promptly went to the remote location.
"The calf had injuries from the dog attack but did not abandon its mother," Asera stated, highlighting the animal's poignant loyalty. The rescuers brought the calf to the safety of the gaushala on Monday, where it could receive necessary care and treatment for its wounds after its harrowing ordeal.
A Story of Unbreakable Bond
This incident has cast a spotlight on the deep emotional bonds that exist in the animal kingdom. The calf's actions—refusing food and water for five days while maintaining a vigil—demonstrate a level of attachment and grief that resonated powerfully with the human onlookers. The story from the Thar Desert serves as a somber reminder of the challenges faced by nomadic animals and the compassion of local communities and animal welfare groups who step in to help.
While the mother camel could not be saved, the timely intervention has given the calf a fighting chance at survival, thanks to the alerted villagers and the swift action of the cow protectors.
