INVC NEWS
Bhopal – :The continuous death of cheetahs in Madhya Pradesh’s Kuno National Park has raised concerns within the state government. Over the past two months, three cheetahs and three cubs have tragically lost their lives. One of the cubs is currently suffering from an illness. To ensure the safety of the remaining cheetahs, the practice of chanting Mahamrityunjaya and reciting Sunderkand has commenced in Sheopur.
The villagers, who have been anticipating development in the region through the Cheetah Project, are particularly distressed by the successive deaths of these magnificent creatures. Consequently, they have turned to prayer, seeking divine intervention to safeguard the remaining cheetahs. The villagers are now fervently chanting Mahamrityunjaya and reciting Sunderkand to promote their well-being.
The Cheetah Project was initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 17, 2022. Eight cheetahs were brought from Namibia and released into Kuno Park in Bado. Subsequently, on February 18, 2023, an additional 12 cheetahs were introduced from South Africa, bringing the total to 20 cheetahs. Unfortunately, only 17 cheetahs have survived thus far. Additionally, three cubs born to Jwala Cheetah in Kuno National Park have also met an untimely demise.
In an effort to ensure the safety and well-being of the cheetahs, a two-day ritual involving havan (sacred fire ceremony) and the recitation of Mahamrityunjaya mantra, Sunderkand, and Hanuman Chalisa is being held at the Manshapurna Hanuman temple, located 15 km from the Karahal tehsil headquarters. The objective is to invoke divine blessings for the cheetahs’ safety and the speedy recovery of the ailing cub. The ceremony is being actively attended by the villagers as well as Cheetah Mitra, an organization dedicated to cheetah conservation.
Girraj Paliwal, a local folk artist and a friend of the cheetahs, expressed his sentiments regarding the ongoing tragedies. The villagers have united at the Manshapurna Hanuman temple, performing rituals and prayers based on their respective beliefs. The loss of three consecutive cheetahs and the cubs of the female cheetah Jwala has deeply saddened everyone. The prayers conducted aim to ensure the health and safety of all the remaining cheetahs in the park and the swift recovery of the ailing cub.
In conclusion, the plight of cheetahs in Madhya Pradesh’s Kuno National Park has triggered a response from both the government and the local community. The initiation of the Cheetah Project by Prime Minister Narendra Modi demonstrated a commitment to conservation efforts. However, the recent deaths of cheetahs and cubs have raised concerns among the villagers who were hopeful for the region’s development. To safeguard the remaining cheetahs, the villagers have embraced religious rituals, including chanting Mahamrityunjaya and reciting Sunderkand. The collective support and prayers from the community serve as a testament to their dedication in preserving these magnificent creatures. It is hoped that through these efforts, the cheetahs will experience a renewed sense of safety and the sick cub will make a swift recovery.
FAQs
1. Why are cheetahs dying in Kuno National Park? The exact cause of the cheetah deaths in Kuno National Park is currently under investigation. The state government and wildlife authorities are working diligently to determine the factors contributing to these unfortunate incidents.
2. How many cheetahs were introduced through the Cheetah Project? As part of the Cheetah Project initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a total of 20 cheetahs were brought to Kuno National Park. However, only 17 cheetahs have survived thus far.
3. What is the significance of chanting Mahamrityunjaya and reciting Sunderkand? Mahamrityunjaya is a powerful mantra associated with Lord Shiva, believed to promote longevity and well-being. Sunderkand is a chapter from the Hindu epic Ramayana dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Both these rituals are considered auspicious and are believed to bring protection and blessings.
4. How are the local villagers supporting cheetah conservation? The villagers are actively participating in the religious ceremonies being held for the safety of the cheetahs. They have come together at the Manshapurna Hanuman temple to perform rituals and prayers, demonstrating their commitment and concern for the well-being of the remaining cheetahs.
5. What is being done to address the health issues of the sick cheetah cub? The villagers and wildlife authorities are praying for the speedy recovery of the ailing cheetah cub. Additionally, the state government is coordinating efforts to provide necessary medical assistance and care to ensure the cub’s well-being.
