“ It’s been four years since I last went to the forest, a place that holds memories of my husband's tragic end at the hands of a rhino. The pain of his loss is still raw, and thoughts of that fateful day continue to haunt me.

Back when everyone had no work during the lockdown, we decided to go into the forest to get vegetables and sell them to make money. It was Holi, and we celebrated the festival with vibrant colors before heading into the woods. Unbeknownst to us, a rhino lurked nearby. In the midst of collecting vegetables, it suddenly appeared, striking my husband and disappearing into the bush.

While some fled in fear, I, along with a few friends, searched for my husband. We found him, covered in blood but still alive. Desperate to save him, we moved him to a nearby tree, but his injuries were too severe. In his last moments, I held him, trying to offer comfort as he took his final breath. My world shattered, and I blanked out.

I often wonder if things could have been different. If he hadn't worn a white t-shirt or if we had washed off the colors, maybe the rhino wouldn't have attacked. Animals supposedly dislike white and red colors. Yet, fate had its way. I'm left grappling with the harsh reality of his untimely and painful demise.

Each day, I miss him dearly, wishing his departure had been more peaceful”. Bifal Kumal,Chitwan