Jay and Veeru – Gir’s inseparable duo that won the heart of visitors, PM Modi included – die weeks apart

But over a month ago, when they were not in each other’s company, Jay and Veeru sustained serious injuries in separate territorial fights.

While Veeru died on June 11, a few days after sustaining the wounds, Jay succumbed to its injuries on Tuesday.

Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forest and Chief Wildlife Warden of Gujarat Jaipal Singh said the two lions used to lead the same pride of big cats. “Veeru had sustained very serious injuries and he died a few days after that. Whereas, Jay died today. The two were rescued and we made a lot of attempts to save them but could not succeed,” Singh said on Tuesday.

Deputy Conservator of Forest, Wildlife Division (Sasan-Gir), Mohan Ram said that the two were prime adult males who used to accompany around 15 female lions. “Their area was very big, (spanning) from tourism zone to non-tourism zone and from grassland to woodland and even fringe areas. They sustained injuries in territorial fights (with other lions) while they were not together,” he added.

Rajya Sabha Parliamentarian and wildlife enthusiast Parimal Nathwani, in a statement, lamented the death of the two lions (X/@mpparimal)

Rajya Sabha Parliamentarian and wildlife enthusiast Parimal Nathwani, in a statement, lamented the death of the two lions.

Nathwani said, “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.”

A wildlife enthusiast who has been working with the forest department said that the two lions were named as Jay and Veeru as they had been moving around the forest with each other for a long time.

In the words of Nathwani: “Gir will never be the same without them. Legends may fade, but their spirit will echo through the forests they once ruled together.”