Pune: From Peril to Protection; Wildlife SOS Celebrates 9 Years of Leopards Lila and Rajesh at MLRC

Junnar, 30th August 2025: What began as a story of fear and conflict has transformed into one of hope and sanctuary. This week, Wildlife SOS marks nine years since two leopards, Lila and Rajesh, found refuge at the Manikdoh Leopard Rescue Centre (MLRC) in Junnar, Maharashtra, a journey that captures both the challenges of human-wildlife conflict and the promise of coexistence.
Back in August 2016, a young leopardess named Lila wandered into a crowded village, triggering panic and anger. In a tense standoff, she faced the very real threat of mob retaliation. But swift action by the Maharashtra Forest Department, with support from Wildlife SOS, saved her from tragedy.

That same year, Rajesh, a seven-year-old leopard from Shindewadi, was also caught in the crosshairs of conflict. His presence near human settlements had stoked fears, putting his life in jeopardy. Both leopards were relocated to MLRC, where they began a new chapter.

Nine years later, the pair are thriving. At MLRC, Lila and Rajesh live in spacious, naturalistic enclosures designed to mimic the wild. They receive balanced nutrition, veterinary care, and enrichment activities like climbing structures, scent trails, and hidden treats, all of which help maintain their natural instincts.

Their transformation is evident, from anxious animals caught in conflict to dignified residents symbolizing survival and resilience.

Geeta Seshamani, Co-founder and Secretary of Wildlife SOS, reflects on their journey, “Lila and Rajesh remind us how fragile the line is between survival and conflict for India’s leopards. Their rehabilitation shows that compassion and quick action can protect both wildlife and people.”

Her fellow co-founder and CEO, Kartick Satyanarayan, adds, “As we celebrate this ninth anniversary, we are reminded that human-wildlife conflict is not an isolated problem. Our partnership with the Maharashtra Forest Department at MLRC is proof that collaboration is the way forward if we want leopards and communities to coexist peacefully.”

While the anniversary is a milestone, it also highlights a larger truth: India’s leopard population is under increasing pressure from rapid urbanisation and habitat loss. For Wildlife SOS, the rescues of Lila and Rajesh are not just isolated success stories, but powerful lessons in what’s possible when people choose compassion over conflict.

As Pune celebrates this moment, the story of Lila and Rajesh serves as both a victory and a warning. Every leopard saved is not only a life preserved but a chance to redefine the relationship between humans and the wild.