They were inseparable and their friendship was legendary. They were a star attraction of the Gir forest in Gujarat. Now Jay and Veeru both have departed living behind stories of their solidarity, friendship and strength. Jay passed away today while Veeru had died a month ago in June. Both of them succumbed to injuries following a territorial fight with other lions. They had a territorial battle in June which saw Veeru losing his life on June 11. Now, just a little over a month, his best friend Jay too passed away. Despite best efforts put in by the forest department of Gujarat government and experienced veterinarians along with a super specialised team from Vantara, the lions could not be saved.
Acclaimed lion lover, conservator and parliamentarian Parimal Nathwani expressed his anguish at the death of Jay and Veeru. “Deeply anguished by the passing away of Jay today. After a long and valiant battle for survival, Jay too departed. To every wildlife enthusiast who has witnessed the majestic presence of Jay-Veeru or heard tales of their bond — this loss is personal.”, Nathwani said. He added that PM Narendra Modi had also witnessed the royalty of Jay and Veeru during his recent visit to Gir.
In a fitting tribute, Nathwani said Gir will never be the same without them. Legends may fade, but their spirit will echo through the forests they once ruled together.”
In the heart of Gir, the tale of Jay & Veeru captivated all. Their story,reminiscent of the iconic duo from the famous Hindi movie Sholay, captured a drama that transcended all screen play. This real-life pair embodied the spirit of inseparability just as their cinematic counterparts. Enthusiasts and veterans of Gir’s wilds recount numerous adventures of Jay & Veeru, known as the forest’s most formidable and fearless lions. Despite their occasional squabble and tussles, their bond remained unbreakable, showcasing a loyalty that led them on shared journeys through the realms of Malanka, Kenedipur, Natadia, Itadi and Limadra.
Their mysterious roars, though enigmatic, seem to echo the heartfelt anthem of friendship, ये दोस्ती…हम नहीं तोडेंगे, छोडेंगे दर मगर, तेरा साथ न छोडेंगे… (We will not break this friendship, we will prefer death over getting separated from each other), symbolising a pledge of eternal camaraderie. It was often said that to visit Gir and not witness Jay & Veeru is to miss the essence of the forest: “गिर में जय-वीरु को नहीं देखा तो कुछ नहीं देखा”.
Gir has always been a sanctuary for such legendary partnerships. Before Jay & Veeru, the forest was home to Dharam-Veer, another pair whose tales of companionship still resonates with those who cherish the lore of the wild expanse.
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