When Hridhima Patel was just a year and a half old, her mother noticed something unusual. While most toddlers might shy away from a crawling insect or flinch at a bird’s sudden flutter, Hridhima moved closer. She was curious, calm, and unafraid.

Now four, she’s no stranger to animal rescues in Ahmedabad. Whether it’s holding a container during a turtle release, watching closely as her mother helps relocate a snake, or quietly sitting near an injured rabbit, Hridhima is always nearby — observing, absorbing, helping in little ways.

At home, being kind to animals is just part of everyday life. Surrounded by that, Hridhima is growing up seeing snakes, turtles, rabbits — all kinds of animals — as something to care for, not be scared of.

Early connection with nature

Instead of pulling her away or shielding her, Hridhima’s parents chose to encourage her curiosity. From observing birds to gently approaching injured animals, Hridhima was slowly introduced to a world many adults hesitate to engage with. Her ease around animals didn’t come from training — it came naturally. Her parents simply made space for it to grow.