Gir: With the passing away of Jay today and of Veeru over a month back, the legendary lion duo Jay-Veeru of Gir have departed after succumbing to their injuries despite the efforts of Gujarat Forest Department officials and veterinarians, who gave their all to save them. The Vantara team also spent two days at Gir and attended to injured Jay, but unfortunately couldn’t get the desired results.

With a heavy heart, Rajya Sabha MP and lion lover Parimal Nathwani lamented, “Deeply anguished by the passing away of Jay today. After a long and valiant battle for survival, Jay too departed. To every wildlife enthusiast who has witnessed the majestic presence of Jay-Veeru or heard tales of their bond — this loss is personal. Our Hon’ble PM Shri Narendra Modi had also witnessed the royalty of Jay and Veeru during his recent visit to Gir. Gir will never be the same without them. Legends may fade, but their spirit will echo through the forests they once ruled together.”

In the heart of Gir, the tale of Jay & Veeru captivated all. Their story, reminiscent of the iconic duo from the famous Hindi movie Sholay, captured a drama that transcended the screen. This real-life pair embodied the spirit of inseparability just like their cinematic counterparts. Enthusiasts and veterans of Gir’s wilds recount numerous adventures of Jay & Veeru, known as the forest’s most formidable and fearless lions. Despite their occasional squabbles and tussles, their bond remained unbreakable, showcasing a loyalty that led them on shared journeys through the realms of Malanka, Kenedipur, Natadia, Itadi, and Limadra.

Their mysterious roars, though enigmatic, seemed to echo the heartfelt anthem of friendship:
ये दोस्ती…हम नहीं तोड़ेंगे, छोड़ेंगे दम मगर, तेरा साथ न छोड़ेंगे…
(“We will not break this friendship; we will rather die than leave your side.”)
— symbolizing a pledge of eternal camaraderie.

It was often said that to visit Gir and not witness Jay & Veeru is to miss the essence of the forest:
गिर में जय-वीरु को नहीं देखा तो कुछ नहीं देखा
(“To visit Gir and not witness Jay and Veeru is to miss the essence of the forest.”)

Gir has always been a sanctuary for such legendary partnerships. Before Jay & Veeru, the forest was home to Dharam-Veer, another pair whose tales of companionship still resonate with those who cherish the lore of this wild expanse. DeshGujarat