Rajesh and Seethamma's modest home is overflowing with the purring and playful energy of their feline companions.
The home of Rajesh Gowda and Seethamma, in Karnataka’s Mangaluru, stands as a testament to their enduring love and compassion. For nearly thirty years, this elderly couple has shared their lives together, though they were never blessed with children. Their home, once silent and echoing with the emptiness of their childless years, has transformed into a bustling sanctuary for cats. Fifteen years ago, a stray cat wandered into their lives, bringing with it a glimmer of joy. When the cat gave birth, the couple found an unexpected solace in the playful antics of the kittens. This initial joy has blossomed into a profound affection, and what began with one cat has now expanded into a family of over a hundred. Today, Rajesh and Seethamma’s modest home is overflowing with the purring and playful energy of their feline companions. They feed the cats with leftover food from hotels and the same meals they enjoy themselves, spending approximately Rs 300 daily to ensure the cats are well-fed and content.
Rajesh’s commitment extends beyond their home; he frequently rescues kittens found abandoned on the roadsides, particularly in Belalu and Maya. When questioned about their substantial expenditure on the cats, Rajesh explains, “It’s not about the expense. We can’t bear to see them starving on the roadside. Unlike us, they cannot ask for help when they’re hungry.”
The couple’s dedication to their cats is evident in their daily routine. The cats are well-fed with vegetables, sweet snacks, and fresh milk from their own cows. Rajesh and Seethamma’s home is a haven of joy and contentment, despite the occasional loss of cats to illness or accidents. They remain steadfast in their resolve to provide a loving home to every cat that comes their way, finding happiness in their shared care and companionship.
