What sparked the birth of Bhunte?

When science reaches the general public in an artistic form that is truly worth understanding, it can work wonders!

As a researcher focused on the physiological responses to stress in wild Asian elephants, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to observe these magnificent animals in their natural habitats. One memorable day in the stunning heart of Bandipur National Park in Karnataka, India, I watched a playful baby calf just a few months old. He was joyfully rolling around in dry dung, trying to touch his ears with his tiny trunk, and tugging at the trunks of the older elephants in his herd. I was completely charmed by his innocence and cuteness, and I decided to name him Bhunte. The images of Bhunte stuck with me so vividly that when I returned to my field base camp in Bandipur, I couldn’t resist creating a cartoon of him. That was the moment Bhunte sprang to life in the world of art. I’m excited to share some of my cartoons, along with stories and fascinating facts about elephants. So, let’s dive into my imaginative journey and explore Bhunte’s adventures in the wild and the realm of science!

Bhunte with his brother and mother

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Sanjeeta Sharma Pokharel (SSP)

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