By - Ravisha Poddar
Shattering Stereotypes
Meet Parbati Barua, ‘Hasti Kanya,’ India’s first female elephant mahout.
Honored with the Padma Shri on Republic Day, 2024, she's redefining roles
Elephant Mahout Explained
A mahout is an elephant rider and caretaker. Traditionally experienced
elephant-keeping families, share a lifelong bond with their majestic companions
Childhood Passion
Hailing from the Rajahs of Gauripur, Baruah's journey began at 14. Her
passion for wildlife led her to the Kachugaon forests, marking the start of her elephant-keeping
career
Bond with Elephants
Parbati's routine involves bathing, riding, and training elephants. Her
special treat, 'Hadiya,' a rice-based delicacy, reflects the connection she shares with her
gentle giants
Crossing Borders
Invited to Bihar, West Bengal, Odisha, and Assam, Parbati showcased her
skills in understanding and managing elephants
Government Partnerships
Collaborating with three state governments, Parbati actively contributes
to scientific efforts in mitigating and capturing wild elephants
As a young woman, she chose to live and work amid her elephant family
and distinguishes herself as the only female mahout in the world
One-of-a-kind