Baby Bhakat: The Inspiring Assam Civet Cub Story That Reached CBSE Classrooms Across India
In the heart of Kampur in Assam's Nagaon district, a touching story of compassion towards wildlife has earned a place in the CBSE Class 10 English textbook. The chapter, titled Baby Bhakat, tells the real-life story of an orphaned civet cub that was rescued and lovingly raised by the Saikia family, becoming a symbol of human-animal coexistence and wildlife conservation.
The story began in 2009 when wildlife enthusiast Dharani Saikia received information about a newborn civet cub that had fallen from its nest in a nearby village. The cub was only a few days old, helpless, and unable to survive on its own. Concerned for its welfare, Dharani brought the tiny animal home.
The family faced an immediate challenge: how to feed the orphaned cub. Following advice that human milk closely matched the nutritional needs of the young civet, Dharani's wife, Anjali Saikia, made the extraordinary decision to nurse the cub alongside her infant son, Giban. This act of kindness gave the animal a second chance at life.
The family named the cub "Bhakat." As it grew, Bhakat became an inseparable member of the household. It played with the children, slept beside them, followed family members around the house, and shared daily life just like another child in the family. Tea and biscuits became some of its favourite treats, and its affectionate nature won the hearts of everyone around it.
After spending nearly eight months with the Saikia family, Bhakat eventually returned to the wild. Although the civet disappeared into the forests, its story did not end there. The unique bond between the family and the rescued animal had earlier been documented by a visiting photojournalist, helping preserve the remarkable account for future generations.
Years later, the Saikia family received an unexpected surprise when their son discovered that the story of Baby Bhakat had been included in the CBSE Class 10 English curriculum. Today, students across India read about the rescue and upbringing of the civet cub as part of their lessons on empathy, nature, and environmental awareness.
The inclusion of Baby Bhakat in a national textbook highlights the important relationship between people and wildlife in Assam. Beyond being a heartwarming story, it serves as a valuable lesson about compassion, biodiversity conservation, and the role every individual can play in protecting animals. The story continues to inspire students and nature lovers alike, proving that small acts of kindness can leave a lasting impact far beyond a single community.
Who Was Baby Bhakat and Why Is the Story Included in the CBSE Class 10 English Textbook?
