Simlipal National Park, Odisha, bids a solemn farewell to one of its most iconic guardians, Mahendra, the legendary elephant who had braved bullets and arrows in his lifetime. Retired Indian Forest Service officer Susanta Nanda shared a heartfelt tribute on X (formerly Twitter), writing, “As we bid farewell to this incredible family member of Odisha wildlife, let us pledge to protect Simlipal, the habitats he called his home. Neither bullets of Maoists nor arrow of poachers could deter him. Rest in peace. Your footprints will forever mark the heart of Simlipal.”
Mahendra’s extraordinary life is etched in the annals of wildlife conservation. In 2012, he survived bullet injuries inflicted during a Maoist attack, a testament to his resilience and courage. His journey didn’t end there—he was later entrusted with a crucial role in tracking Sundari, one of the few tigers involved in India’s first tiger relocation project. Though the project was ultimately suspended, Mahendra’s contributions remained invaluable to forest officials.
As Odisha mourns the loss of this magnificent creature, Mahendra’s memory stands as a symbol of strength and the unbreakable bond between nature and its protectors. His legacy urges us to safeguard Simlipal and its rich biodiversity for generations to come.
