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She earned recognition for her efforts in guiding a herd of over 50 elephants in West Bengal’s Midnapore district back to their migratory trail, showcasing her expertise in managing these majestic beings.
NEW DELHI: India has announced the Padma Awards 2024 on the eve of its 75th Republic Day. Among the recipients is 67-year-old Parbati Baruah, affectionately known as ‘Hasti Kanya,’ who has been conferred with the Padma Shri for her groundbreaking efforts in wildlife conservation and overcoming gender stereotypes.
Hailing from Gauripur in Assam, Parbati Baruah, born into an Assamese zamindar family with a rich history of elephant association, developed a deep connection with these majestic creatures from an early age. In a traditional practice, her family used to capture and sell elephants until it was banned by the government.
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Parbati’s journey as a mahout began at the age of 14 when she captured her first elephant in Kachugaon forests in Kokrajhar district. Breaking the stereotype of a male-dominated field, she pursued her passion for elephants. Parbati Baruah became India’s first woman elephant mahout in 1972, a milestone that marked her dedication to elephant conservation.
FLASH: Parbati Baruah, India’s first female elephant mahout, receives the Padma Shri.
Starting at 14, Parbati, who hails from Assam, shattered stereotypes, taming giants and contributing significantly to wildlife conservation. #PadmaShri #ParbatiBaruah #PadmaAwards pic.twitter.com/uGznZi9Bp6
— The New Indian (@TheNewIndian_in) January 26, 2024
Over the years, Parbati Baruah has played a pivotal role in mitigating human-elephant conflicts and assisting in capturing wild tuskers. She earned recognition for her efforts in guiding a herd of over 50 elephants in West Bengal’s Midnapore district back to their migratory trail, showcasing her expertise in managing these majestic beings.
Despite facing challenges, including having to make tough decisions like euthanising a rampaging elephant in Chhattisgarh in 2003, Parbati Baruah remained committed to her mission. Her work is rooted in the philosophy of ensuring safety for both humans and elephants, highlighting the peaceful coexistence between the two.
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Parbati Baruah’s unparalleled love for elephants, as described by her to a media portal, stems from their stability, loyalty, affection, and discipline. Her daily routine involves taking elephants for baths, riding them in jungles, and training them. Even in her 67th year, she continues to live a simple life in Jalpaiguri, surrounded by ropes, chains, and khukris – the tools of her trade.
The Padma Shri conferred upon Parbati Baruah for Social Welfare (Animal Welfare) is a testament to her selfless dedication to the cause of wildlife conservation. Her inspiring journey, from a young girl playing with elephants to becoming a trailblazer in a male-dominated field, has left an indelible mark on India’s conservation efforts.
Parbati Baruah’s recognition as a Padma Shri awardee not only honours her individual achievements but also symbolises the acknowledgment of women breaking barriers and making significant contributions in traditionally male-dominated spheres.
