Raja – A Rescue Guided by Compassion

Raja – A Rescue Guided by Compassion

Raja’s story began with a phone call.

At the Mohanji Peace Center, we were informed about a very young baby deer found alone on the street. He had been wandering and calling out, clearly searching for safety and comfort. A kind man had rescued him from immediate danger and taken him into his home.

For weeks, the rescuer did everything possible to care for the fawn — feeding him, protecting him, and offering warmth and love. But as the baby deer grew stronger, it became clear that a private home could not provide what he truly needed.

A deer needs space, safety, and a natural environment in which to grow without constant risk. Understanding this, the rescuer reached out to us, hoping we could help.

We immediately consulted Mohanji.

Without hesitation, he said yes. “Bring him. Take good care of him. Make sure he is safe, protected, and well looked after.”

A Life Saved, A Journey Begun

From the very first moment, Raja was never left alone. He was fed regularly with milk and slept inside the house with us. He received constant attention, warmth, and gentle care — day and night — ensuring he felt safe, calm, and loved.

As he grew, Raja became curious, playful, and trusting. His favorite foods quickly revealed themselves — especially fresh fruits, with watermelon at the top of the list. He followed us everywhere, moving from room to room, and at mealtimes, he would visit each person at the table, gently asking for food to be shared. He would eat everything — just to make sure he didn’t miss out.

We named him Raja, meaning King — not because he demanded attention, but because he was treated with the dignity and respect every life deserves.

Growing Safely

As Raja grew, so did his need for space.

We gradually expanded his world, taking him outdoors, encouraging natural movement, and allowing him to explore under careful supervision. Like all young deer, Raja was curious and eager to discover life beyond familiar boundaries.

On one occasion, that curiosity carried him too far, and he became lost. Our team searched tirelessly, calling his name and refusing to give up. When he was finally found and brought back safely, it was a powerful reminder of how fragile rescued lives can be — and how essential protected spaces truly are.

Finding His Herd

For Raja’s long-term safety and well-being, he was introduced to a larger protected enclosure shared with other rescued deer.

The transition was emotional. Raja had grown accustomed to close human contact, and at first, he struggled. We struggled as well, missing him at the table during meals. But over time, something equally important emerged — freedom, the joy of nature, and the quiet companionship of his own kind.

Some of the deer carried deep trauma. Trust does not return quickly. Healing takes time — sometimes even generations. But within a safe and respectful environment, healing can begin.

Raja continues to receive special attention and care. He has his own feeding bowls, always filled with his favorite foods, and regular gentle interaction through brushing and play.

Today, we witness his ongoing transformation — the growth and shedding of his first antlers, the changing of his coat with each season, and the evolution of his food preferences. Each phase reflects the intelligence and rhythm of nature itself.

For us, Raja is a living reminder of what compassion, patience, trust and protection can make possible — and how extraordinary it is to witness the wonders of nature so closely, when given the chance to unfold in safety.

Raja is not owned, displayed, or controlled.

He is respected — as a being, as a life, as part of the land.