Yaanai Doctor - A journey into the world of Elephant Healing
Recently, during a visit to Panuval bookstore in Chennai, I came across a book by Jeyamohan, an author whose works I hadn’t explored before. While I had never felt a particular fascination for Jeyamohan’s writings, I decided to take a leap of faith and chose to delve into his world. I picked up two of his works, “Iravu” (Nights) and “Yaanai Doctor” (The Elephant Doctor).
'டாக்டர் நம்ம பசங்க மாதிரி சபிக்கப்பட்ட தலைமொறை இந்தியாவிலே இருந்ததில்லை. அவங்க முன்னாடி இன்னிக்கு நிக்கிறதெல்லாமே வெறும் கட்டவுட்டு மனுஷங்க. லட்சியவாதமோ கனவொ இல்லாத போலி முகங்க. அவங்கள்லாம் ஜஸ்ட் ஜெயிச்சவங்க டாக்டர். திருடியோ மோசடி பண்ணியோ பணமும் புகழும் அதிகாரமும் அடைஞ்சவங்க. அவங்கள முன்னால பாத்துட்டு ஒரு தலைமுறையே ஓடி வந்திட்டிருக்கு. அந்த பசங்க முன்னாடி இந்தா இப்டி ஒரு ஐடியலிஸத்துக்கும் இன்னும் நம்ம சமூகத்திலே எடமிருக்குன்னு சொல்லலாம்னு நினைச்சேன். இன்னும் இங்க காந்தி வாழறதுக்கு ஒரு காலடி மண்ணிருக்குன்னு சொல்லலாம்னு நினைச்சேன். ஒரு பத்துபேரு கவனிச்சாக்கூட போருமே டாக்டர்'.
“Yaanai Doctor” is a novella that introduces us to Dr. V. Krishnamoorthy, who is affectionately known as Dr. K among the people residing in the vicinity. Dr. K is a dedicated professional working tirelessly for the well-being of both captive and wild elephants in Southern India. It’s a story of passion, compassion, and the extraordinary bond between Dr. K and these magnificent creatures.
As I immersed myself in the novella, I discovered that while it may not have resonated deeply with me on a personal level, I found myself captivated by the skillful narration and the unique world it unveils.
One of the standout moments in the novella is when a herd of elephants makes a journey from Mudumalai to Top Slip, seeking medical aid for a calf in their midst. This poignant episode offers a glimpse into the complex relationship between humans and elephants, and the lengths to which individuals like Dr. K go to ensure their welfare.
The story is beautifully narrated from the perspective of a Forest Ranger who is determined to help Dr. K gain the recognition he truly deserves. The ranger’s efforts to have Dr. K acknowledged and honored by the public are at the heart of how the narrative unfolds.
“Yaanai Doctor” takes readers on a remarkable journey through the world of elephant healing and conservation in Southern India. It is a story of devotion, hope, and the profound connection that can exist between humans and the animal kingdom. Jeyamohan’s storytelling prowess shines throughout the novella, offering a unique and heartwarming glimpse into a world that is both enchanting and vital.
In my journey of exploring Jeyamohan’s works, “Yaanai Doctor” may not have struck a personal chord, but it certainly left a lasting impression. It is a tribute to the unsung heroes working to protect and care for our wildlife, reminding us of the importance of coexisting with the incredible creatures that share our planet.
If you have a penchant for tales of wildlife, compassion, and human-animal relationships, “Yaanai Doctor” is a must-read. It offers a fresh perspective on the wonders of nature and the extraordinary individuals who dedicate their lives to its preservation.