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PAW-SITIVE HEROES: Geeta Seshamani, Compassionate Crusader

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Neha

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6 min read

29 Nov, 2024

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In the vast landscape of wildlife conservation, few individuals have made as profound an impact as Geeta Seshamani.


A former English Literature lecturer turned passionate conservationist, she has transformed the lives of hundreds of animals and entire communities through her groundbreaking work with Wildlife SOS.


Co-founded with Kartick Satyanarayan in 1995, her organization began with a mission to end the cruel "dancing bear" practice in India and has since evolved into a comprehensive wildlife protection and rehabilitation movement.


Seshamani's approach is unique—she doesn't just rescue animals, but addresses the root causes of wildlife exploitation by empowering local communities, providing alternative livelihoods, and raising awareness about conservation. Her journey from an academic background to becoming one of India's most respected wildlife conservationists is a testament to the power of compassion, dedication, and holistic thinking.


Early Beginnings: From Classroom to Compassion

Before becoming a legendary wildlife conservationist, Geeta Seshamani was an English Literature lecturer at a women's college in Delhi, with a heart deeply committed to those who could not speak for themselves. Her early work with Friendicoes SECA (Society for the Eradication of Cruelty to Animals) laid the groundwork for what would become a transformative journey in animal welfare.


At Friendicoes SECA, Geeta served as Vice-President for nearly three decades, establishing an emergency helpline for domestic animals and developing mobile clinics that reached working equines across Delhi, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. Her innovative approach combined her academic background with a profound compassion for animal welfare, creating comprehensive support systems for injured and abandoned animals.


The Moment of Transformation

Everything changed on a fateful day along the Delhi-Agra highway. Geeta witnessed a sloth bear being brutally exploited for entertainment—a moment that would become the catalyst for her life's most significant mission. The heart-wrenching scene of the "dancing bear" practice struck her deeply, compelling her to take action.


In 1995, she co-founded Wildlife SOS with Kartick Satyanarayan, a distant cousin who shared her vision. Their organization was born with a clear mission: to end the cruel practice of exploiting wildlife, particularly sloth bears.


Building a Sanctuary of Hope

Wildlife SOS quickly became a beacon of hope for exploited animals. The organization's first major milestone came in 2000 with the establishment of the Agra Bear Rescue Facility. This wasn't just a shelter—it was a sanctuary that would eventually rescue and rehabilitate over 650 sloth bears.


The organization expanded its reach with additional centers:


A Holistic Approach to Conservation

What truly set Geeta apart was her understanding that conservation wasn't just about saving animals—it was about transforming entire communities. The Kalandar Rehabilitation Project became a cornerstone of Wildlife SOS's approach. By providing alternative livelihoods and educational opportunities to the community that had historically relied on exploiting bears, she created a sustainable model of conservation.


Remarkably, this approach has been so successful that nearly 40% of Wildlife SOS staff now comprises members from the Kalandar community.


Broader Impact and Vision

Geeta's work extends far beyond animal rescue. Her contributions include:

  • Preserving endangered species like sloth bears and elephants
  • Addressing human-animal conflicts
  • Promoting environmental sustainability
  • Creating a model of conservation that respects both wildlife and human communities


A Legacy of Compassion

Today, Wildlife SOS stands as one of the largest wildlife organizations in South Asia, recognized internationally for its innovative approaches to conservation. The organization has transformed from rescuing captive sloth bears to addressing broader issues of wildlife protection across various species.


Wildlifesos.org

Continuing the Journey

Reflecting on three decades of work, Geeta remains committed to her mission. Her journey from an English literature professor to a wildlife conservation pioneer demonstrates the profound impact one person's dedication can have on the world.


The Deeper Philosophy

Geeta Seshamani's work embodies a profound truth: conservation is not just about protecting species, but about understanding, respecting, and coexisting with all forms of life. Through Wildlife SOS, she has created more than an organization—she has built a movement that bridges compassion, education, and sustainable development.


ALSO READ | PAW-SITIVE HEROES: Kartick Satyanarayan, the Bear Man

Conclusion

Her legacy continues to inspire future generations, proving that with passion, innovation, and unwavering commitment, it's possible to create meaningful change—one animal, one community at a time.

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