For the twoscore monkeys living in the completely dried-up Kerameri valley, Waghmare Laxman is like an oasis. Having lost much of their habitat consisting of shady and fruit-bearing trees, the simians have come to rely on this poor do-gooder from Kerameri mandal headquarters since the last season for surviving the harsh summer months.
The 55-year-old farmer, fruit vendor and a part-time wage labourer travels eight km from his home to the ghat road twice every day to feed and provide drinking water to the monkeys. He spends between ₹20 and ₹70 per trip depending on the mode of transport.
“I bring two cans of water and a basket full of discarded fruit, sometimes even fresh ones, to feed and quench their thirst at 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. every day,” says Laxman.
“The auto-rickshaw driver charges ₹20 for a two way trip and ₹10 for each of the four water cans and the fruit basket which I bring every day, while RTC conductor charges only ₹10,” he explains.
It was sometime during the last summer that Laxman, leading a herd of cattle on the ghat road, spotted a weak-looking monkey which was apparently starving and thirsty. “I immediately gave him water and decided that this is going to be my work for the entire season,” he recalls of the incident which made him do what he does today. Soon enough, he organised two water containers at two spots frequented by the monkeys and began filling it every day. His effort proved to be an inspiration for some regular travellers in these parts who do not fail to replenish the containers whenever they pass by.
“My wife and I live with one of my six daughters and none of the three sons is taking care of us,” he shares adding “We, however, earn enough to help the simians through the summer months and yes, my wife has been supportive all along.”
