Tragic Loss: Beloved Two-Year-Old Elephant Calf Gauri Succumbs to Illness at Phanasoli Camp
By The News Observer Desk
Karwar, Karnataka – September 25, 2025
In a heart-wrenching incident that has left wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists in mourning, Gauri, a two-year-old female elephant calf, passed away on Thursday after a prolonged battle with severe illness at the Phanasoli Elephant Camp in the Kali Huli Wildlife Sanctuary, Joida taluk.
Gauri, who was just two years and nine months old, had been captivating visitors with her playful antics and infectious energy for months. Described as a ‘smiling-faced little one’ with a mischievous trot and endearing playfulness, she had won the hearts of hundreds at the camp, becoming a major draw for tourists exploring the lush forests of Uttara Kannada district.
For the past few days, the young calf had been suffering from acute health issues, despite round-the-clock veterinary care. Efforts to treat her proved futile, and she breathed her last earlier today, officials confirmed.
‘This cherubic two-year-and-nine-month-old, who lit up the camp with her joyful demeanor, had been grappling with intense discomfort in recent days. Despite our best medical interventions, Gauri took her final breath today,’ said a spokesperson from the Forest Department, expressing profound grief over the loss.
Gauri’s passing is a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by orphaned or rescued elephant calves in captivity, even under protected care. The Phanasoli camp, nestled within the dense Kali Tiger Reserve, serves as a rehabilitation hub for elephants rescued from human-wildlife conflicts in the region.
On Thursday evening, a solemn funeral was conducted under the supervision of Forest Department officials. The calf’s last rites were performed in a forested area nearby, adhering to protocols for wildlife burials.
The ceremony was attended by a somber gathering, including ACP MS Kallimath, Phanasoli Range Forest Officer Ravikiran Sampagavi, Gund Range Forest Officer Neelkanth Desayi, environmental activist Rahul Bavuji, veterinarians, local resident Deepak Teli, and other departmental staff.
The department has extended its deepest condolences, vowing to enhance health monitoring and veterinary support for the remaining elephants at the camp. As news of Gauri’s death spreads, tributes are pouring in from across the state, highlighting the emotional bond people form with these gentle giants.
Conservation experts urge continued public support for wildlife sanctuaries to prevent such tragedies, emphasizing the need for better funding and awareness to protect Karnataka’s elephant population, estimated at over 6,000 in the wild.
