Bapatla (Andhra Pradesh) [India], April 3 : In a unique story of compassion and connection, Srilakshmi from Andhra Pradesh's Bapatla district has formed an extraordinary bond with her bulls, treating them as family members and even leading them in competitive arenassomething rarely seen among women.
Speaking to ANI, Srilakshmi said, "Usually, in bull race arenas, you don't see women participating. But I felt strongly that if we truly love our bull, we should be able to lead it ourselves. I held my bull and entered the arena with confidence."
Recalling her viral moment at the Vadlamudi competition, she said, "People were surprised'Who is she? How is the bull following her with so much affection?' Even today, the bull follows me the same way. I have participated in nearly 20 to 30 competitions so far."
She shared that her journey began with fear, but encouragement from her husband helped her build confidence. "In the beginning, I was also scared. But Ramakrishna garu encouraged me, saying, 'There's nothing to fearslowly build a bond with them.' When we touch them gently again and again, they begin to recognise us and accept us as their own," she said.
Srilakshmi spoke emotionally about a bull named 'Simha,' which played a defining role in her life. "Simha used to win first place in competitions. Someone once offered one crore rupees to buy it, but I refused. I said, 'Money is not importantthis bull is everything to us.' Even if we have many bulls, Simha gave us our identity," she said.
She added, "I always wanted to enter the arena holding Simha, but it developed health problems and passed away due to a virus. I was heartbroken. Even today, I cannot watch its videos without feeling emotional."
Following Simha's death, Srilakshmi started a venture named 'Amma Ruchulu' with the aim of supporting animal welfare. "If my business can contribute to the well-being of these voiceless animals, that would be meaningful," she said.
Describing her connection with the animals, she said, "They understand us deeply. If I walk slowly, they walk slowly. When I say 'Jai Simha,' it looks into my eyes as if it understands me. I feel like it's communicating back. They have become like our childrenjust like our own family.
Her husband Ramakrishna also spoke about the journey, saying, "Initially, I felt raising more bulls would be expensive and difficult. But seeing her love and dedication, I realised this was more than just interestit was passion. Slowly, even I developed affection for these animals."
He added that caring for another bull named 'Jai Simha' has now become an integral part of their daily life.
Srilakshmi's story goes beyond bull racing, reflecting a rare example of coexistence and emotional connection between humans and animals, where livestock are not just assets but cherished members of the family.
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