PAW-SITIVE HEROES: Kartick Satyanarayan, the Bear Man

Kartick Satyanarayan, affectionately known as the 'Bear Man of India', has dedicated his life to wildlife conservation, particularly focusing on the plight of sloth bears in India. His journey began in the bustling city of Bengaluru, where his love for nature and animals took root during his childhood. Growing up, he spent countless hours exploring forests, volunteering with the forest department, and nurturing a passion for wildlife that would shape his future.

Early Life and Inspiration

From a young age, Kartick was captivated by the stories of legendary conservationists like Jim Corbett and Kenneth Anderson. These heroes inspired him to take action, and by the age of seventeen, he began working as a field biologist for the New York Zoological Society. His experiences in the field solidified his commitment to wildlife conservation and opened his eyes to the urgent need for action against animal cruelty.

Hamsi

One of the most heart-wrenching issues he encountered was the illegal practice of 'dancing bears'. This cruel tradition involved capturing sloth bears, torturing them into submission, and forcing them to perform for entertainment. Witnessing this abuse ignited a fire within Kartick to make a difference.

Founding Wildlife SOS

In 1995, he co-founded Wildlife SOS with Geeta Seshamani, headquartered in New Delhi, aiming to end the suffering of dancing bears and promote wildlife conservation in India. Their mission was not only to rescue these bears but also to rehabilitate them and educate communities about animal welfare. The duo established the Agra Bear Rescue Facility, which has become the largest rehabilitation center for sloth bears in the world.

Mowgli

Kartick's approach was unique; he understood that simply rescuing bears was not enough. He recognized that many members of the Kalandar community, who traditionally captured and trained these bears, relied on this brutal practice for their livelihood. Instead of condemning them, Kartick sought to empower them through education and alternative income sources.

Many members of the Kalandar community relied on capturing and brutally training these bears for their livelihood. Kartick now empowers them through education and alternative income sources

Transforming Lives

The Tribal Rehabilitation Programme by Wildlife SOS

Through Wildlife SOS, Kartick initiated programs that provided vocational training to Kalandar families. They learned skills such as carpet weaving, embroidery, and small business management. This not only helped them break free from the cycle of bear dancing but also improved their quality of life. Over 3,000 families benefited from these initiatives, and more than 11,000 children were given access to education.

Kartick’s efforts extended beyond just human communities; he has rescued over 600 bears from abusive situations. These bears were often malnourished and injured due to years of neglect. At various locations across India like the Agra Bear Rescue Facility and Bannerghatta Bear Rescue Centre, they receive medical care, rehabilitation support, and live in spacious enclosures that mimic their natural habitat.

Tackling Human-Wildlife Conflict

Karthick with a rescue elephant

Kartick's work does not stop at bear rescue; he is also deeply involved in mitigating human-wildlife conflict across India. His team conducts workshops in communities living near wildlife habitats to educate residents on how to coexist peacefully with animals. By fostering understanding and appreciation for wildlife, they aim to reduce incidents where animals are harmed due to fear or misunderstanding.

His commitment has led him to establish several wildlife rescue centers across India for various species including tigers, leopards, elephants, and reptiles. The Elephant Conservation and Care Centre in Mathura is another significant achievement under his leadership. It serves as a sanctuary for elephants rescued from abusive situations in circuses or tourism.

His commitment has led him to establish several wildlife rescue centers across India for various species including tigers, leopards, elephants, and reptiles.

Recognition and Impact

Prestigious Indira Gandhi Paryavaran Puraskar Award 

Kartick's relentless dedication has earned him numerous accolades over the years. He received the San Diego Zoo Global Conservation Medal in 2018 for his impactful work in conservation. In 2019, he was honored with The Maharana Udai Singh Award for his contributions to community rehabilitation and wildlife protection. He was also awarded the Indira Gandhi Paryavaran Puraskar.

His influence extends beyond India; he has been invited to speak at international platforms such as the European Parliament and the House of Lords in London. Through documentaries and media appearances, Kartick continues to raise awareness about wildlife conservation issues globally.

A Heartfelt Mission

What sets Kartick apart is not just his achievements but his genuine compassion for both animals and people. He often emphasizes that true conservation goes hand-in-hand with community welfare. His belief is that by uplifting communities economically and socially, we can create a sustainable environment where humans and wildlife coexist harmoniously.

One touching aspect of his work is how he personally connects with each rescued bear. He recalls moments spent nurturing orphaned bear cubs back to health—experiences filled with joy and sorrow that reinforce his commitment to their cause.

Vision for Tomorrow

Looking ahead, Kartick aims to expand Wildlife SOS’s reach even further. He envisions creating more awareness programs across India that not only focus on bears but encompass all aspects of wildlife conservation. His dream is to see a future where humans respect nature and understand their role in preserving it.

He continues to work tirelessly on policy-making initiatives aimed at protecting wildlife habitats from encroachment and illegal activities like poaching. As an honorary member of various wildlife advisory boards in India, Kartick actively participates in discussions shaping conservation policies at national levels.