Baripada: In Dhirakula village of Mayurbhanj district, a stray dog named Kali proved that guardians can come in unexpected forms. Her final act of bravery saved more than 30 kindergarten children from a venomous snake, turning her into a legend in the community.
The children were playing outside their school when the reptile slithered dangerously close. Before panic could set in, Kali charged at the snake, fiercely battling to keep it away.
Villagers watched in awe as she fought, even after being bitten multiple times on her face and mouth. She killed the snake, but the venom coursing through her body claimed her life soon after.
Her sacrifice left the children unharmed and the village deeply moved. Residents organized a flower-decked funeral, covering her body with a white cloth and honouring her like family.
In death, Kali was no longer seen as a stray but as a protector who gave everything for the village's children.