In Maharashtra, there is a Hindu temple to the goddess Mayakka Devi, a demon-chasing goddess whose worshipers flock there yearly. The problem is that, despite Animal Rahat providing busses, villagers often drive bullock carts, or even bullock-and-pony carts, in what is a grueling – sometimes even fatal – journey for the animals. This annual “Chinchali Fair” can involve days on the road as villagers push the animals to hurry along, hauling heavily laden carts. The worshipers are so anxious to get there that they give very little rest to the poor bullocks and ponies, and lameness and exhaustion are common. But thanks to Animal Rahat, thousands of animals along this route received crucial relief.

Rest for the Weary

Animal Rahat provided four much-needed rest and even veterinary treatment camps along the route, persuading many travelers to sit and have some tea while the bullocks and ponies rested.  The vets and staff treated 790 on the journey there and 810 on the way home. The exhausted animals enjoyed nutritious feed and fresh water, and Animal Rahat’s staff provided medical treatment to 220 animals—many of whom were in agony, suffering from painful lameness due to bumpy, rocky roads, dehydration, and muscle tears from overloaded carts. 

Ending Cruelty 165 Torture Devices in One Go

The team confiscated 165 torture devices, including sharp bits, spiked cylinders that prevent the animals from turning their heads without being jabbed, tight nylon nose ropes that cut through their septa, and whips, and put up photo poster displays to educate people on cruel practices and how to eliminate them, many of them illiterate.

Animal Rahat convinced the owner of one lame bullock and a pony to have them sent home in a jitney rather than try to continue the trek and covered the cost. They also transported a family with two lame bullocks, sparing the weary animals further suffering. And through concerted pre-emptive efforts, including educating community members and priests, coordinating with the State Transport Bus Depot to assist in arranging transport for pilgrims, and even subsidizing buses, Animal Rahat prevented thousands of animals from having to make the trek at all!

Every year since 2003, Animal Rahat has helped tens of thousands of animals forced to travel to and from the Goddess festival —and it’s all made possible by donors who support this vital work.