Every morning, as the first light filters through the dense canopy of the Agra Bear Rescue Facility (ABRF), a familiar figure makes his way along the winding paths. Svayambar Dutt Baluni, Senior Supervisor of ABRF, fondly known as Somu ji, walks these trails, his presence as natural as the rustle of leaves or the first call of birds at dawn. The sloth bears, long accustomed to the kind-faced man who visits their enclosures unfailingly each day, carry on with their shenanigans, some pausing to respond to his voice. The air is alive with the earthy fragrance of damp soil and wild grass, and a teammate’s call is quick to draw his attention as Somu ji begins his day.
Gentleness, when lived with unwavering constancy, becomes a force stronger than spectacle. Somu ji embodies this truth. His steady presence has nurtured not only the growth of Wildlife SOS, but also the spirit of his colleagues and countless rescued animals. Over the course of 22 long years dedicated to the organisation, his patience, humility, and generosity have made him the strong and invisible thread that binds ABRF together.
To understand Somu ji is to trace the story of ABRF itself. Let us take a closer look at his journey and how his love and care has made him a beloved and irreplaceable person in our hearts.
Can you tell us about your background and how you first became involved with Wildlife SOS?
I am from Uttarakhand. At first, I was training in Delhi to repair air conditioners with my brother-in-law. My relatives knew Kartick sir, and when Wildlife SOS was looking for people to join, I came in as a cook. I still remember my early days here, we were just 20–25 people looking after nearly 36 bears. Everything was new for me, but I felt a sense of care and honesty in the way everyone worked for the animals. That inspired me to stay, and I never left.
Somu ji’s steady presence has nurtured the growth of the organisation for over two decades and his warmth has transformed the sloth bear rescue facility into a welcoming home for its residents. [Photo © Wildlife SOS/ Atharva Pacharne]
You’ve been with Wildlife SOS for over two decades. How do you describe your journey here?
It has been a long but fulfilling journey. I began as a cook, slowly took on other roles, and learnt something new at every step. Gradually through the years, I became a supervisor, helped during rescues, arranged transportation, welcomed guests, supported enrichment work, overlooked the cleanliness of the centre — whatever was needed. Today, as Senior Supervisor, I continue to find peace in knowing we are protecting animals in our own way.
Always ready to lend a hand, Somu ji, as senior supervisor, gently guides his team through every challenge, bringing a solemn reassurance to both his colleagues and the animals he cares for. [Photo © Wildlife SOS/ Atharva Pacharne]
What does a typical day at work look like for you?
My days may look similar from the outside, but each one brings something new. The most rewarding part is the satisfaction of seeing the animals safe, comfortable, and cared for. Some bears I have known for years, and they will always be special to me. Watching them recover from fear and pain and slowly learn to live freely again, that is what gives me strength.
Every corner of the ABRF reflects Somu ji’s care and attention as he makes sure cleanliness and comfort for all bears is maintained. [Photo © Wildlife SOS/ Atharva Pacharne]
What changes have you witnessed at Wildlife SOS over the years?
So much has changed. When I joined, there was no proper office, and we only had one car. Today, we have better infrastructure, many vehicles, and more advanced methods of care. The way we look after the bears has also transformed — from simple feeding and shelter to enrichment activities, target training, and detailed medical care. Veterinary support has improved greatly, which I am very happy about!
Before adding any enrichment to a bear’s enclosure, the team consults Somu ji, who ensures everything is safe and properly arranged. [Photo © Wildlife SOS/ Atharva Pacharne]
Everyone says you’re an excellent cook! Tell us more about your fondness for cooking.
Cooking has always been a source of joy for me. When someone eats food made with love and enjoys it, that is true happiness. Whenever I have time, I cook something new and feed the team. My favourite dishes are paneer-rasam with kheer, and for festivals, I prepare kheer-puri and chole. I also enjoy using vegetables from my own farm, that makes every meal even more special.
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Somu Ji has drawn exceptional praise from his colleagues for his cooking skills using the fresh vegetables that he grows on his little farm — every dish he makes, he combines the goodness of homegrown food with warmth and kindness. [Photo © Wildlife SOS/ Atharva Pacharne]
You’ve been part of many rescues and milestones — how do you tackle different situations?
Every rescue has its challenges, especially during travel. My role is to ensure everything is done slowly and safely so the animal doesn’t get stressed. The most meaningful moments for me are seeing animals who were hurt or frightened recover and live freely again. Whether it’s a bear or even a tiny bird, being able to help them feel safe is what matters most.
From vehicles to appropriate equipment, Somu ji ensures every rescue runs smoothly for both the concerned animal and the team. [Photo © Wildlife SOS/ Atharva Pacharne]
What do you think makes the Wildlife SOS team special?
The spirit here is different. Everyone works very hard, and we all share the same goal — to help animals in need. That unity is what makes this team special. Another thing that stands out is empathy. At Wildlife SOS, it is never only about completing a task, it is about how the animal feels. That care and spirit are what have kept me here all these years.
Somu Ji treats every small animal that arrives at ABRF like his own child, carefully overseeing feeding, check-ups, cleaning, and play, becoming a comforting parent figure to them.[Photo © Wildlife SOS/Atharva Pacharne]
You’ve spent years surrounded by sloth bears here. Do you have any favourites?
Every animal has a story, and I feel close to all of them. But Mowgli the bear will always hold a special place in my heart. I have known him since he first arrived at just three months old, after losing his mother to poachers. Over the years, he has grown into a healthy, mischievous “baby” of ABRF who recognises me, sometimes pausing his play to come closer, as if to say hello. That bond we share is very precious to me!
Mowgli is one of the youngest and playful bears at ABRF, and holds a special place in Somu ji’s heart! [Photo © Wildlife SOS/Mradul Pathak]
As our conversation with Somu ji pauses for now, what shines through is not just the work he has been doing, but the love with which he does it. Whether it is planting trees, feeding a baby bird, or sharing a quiet moment with Mowgli the bear, Somu ji brings a unique sense of patience and affectionate care to every being around him.
For over two decades, he has been the heart of the ABRF, soft-spoken, steady, and endlessly kind. To his team, he is a guide; to the bears, a trusted friend; and to the sanctuary itself, a reminder that true strength lies in kindness. Each morning, just as the first light falls over ABRF, Somu ji begins his day yet again, not just with a sense of responsibility, but because he knows how every simple effort can make a huge difference towards the welfare of resident bears. And for his compassionate care, we will always be grateful!
You too can play a part in protecting sloth bears under Wildlife SOS’s care through a donation and join our family of wildlife warriors!
Feature image: Atharva Pacharne / Wildlife SOS
