Meet Padma Shri Parbati Baruah, India's First Female Mahout

Amidst towering trees and rich wildlife in Assam, there lives an extraordinary woman whose story is as inspiring as it is heartwarming. Parbati Baruah, fondly known as the 'Elephant Girl' or 'Hasti Kanya', has become a symbol of a 'wildlife lover, shattering stereotypes and making history in a field predominantly reserved for men. Recently, her tireless efforts in animal conservation have earned her the prestigious Padma Shri award, a well-deserved recognition for her remarkable journey.

Parbati Baruah's Beginning

Parbati's story began in the quaint village of Goalpara, Assam, where she was born into the esteemed Gauripur royal family. From a young age, she shared a special bond with nature, fostered by her father, Prakritesh Barua, who himself had a deep love for elephants. Together, they embarked on an unforgettable adventure, capturing their first elephant when Parbati was just 14 years old. It was the beginning of a lifelong dedication to these majestic creatures.

A Champion For Harmony

For more than four decades, Parbati Baruah has been a relentless advocate for peaceful coexistence between humans and elephants in Assam. In a region plagued by conflicts between the two species, her expertise and compassion have made a tangible difference. Through her efforts, she has not only saved lives but also helped enact crucial government regulations to manage these conflicts more effectively, ensuring the safety of both humans and elephants.

Mastering The Art Of Connection

Parbati's skill in taming wild elephants is legendary. With patience and understanding, she has transformed once-wild animals into trusted companions, earning respect and admiration far beyond the borders of Assam. Her mastery over elephant  behavior has made her a sought-after expert, with her influence reaching neighboring states like West Bengal and Odisha.

Baruah's remarkable journey has captured the imagination of people around the globe. Renowned author Mark Roland Shand immortalized her story in his book, "Queen of the Elephants," shedding light on her extraordinary achievements. The subsequent BBC documentary further brought her story to the world stage, inspiring countless individuals with her message of compassion and conservation

A Lifetime Of Dedication

Even after receiving the Padma Shri award, Parbati's commitment to wildlife conservation remains unwavering. As a proud member of the International Union for Conservation of Nature's Asian Elephant Specialist Group (IUCN), she continues to advocate for the protection and preservation of these magnificent creatures, ensuring a brighter future for generations to come.

 Baruah's Padma Shri honor is not only a personal triumph but also a reflection of her family's legacy of excellence. With renowned figures like folk singer Pratima Pandey Barua and filmmaker Pramathesh Barua in her lineage, greatness runs in the family.