Odisha Woman Fights Off Bear With Axe to Save Husband in Forest Attack

A tribal woman in Odisha displayed exceptional courage when she fought off a wild bear using an axe to save her husband’s life during a forest attack. The incident occurred in a dense forest area and has drawn praise from forest officials and local residents for her bravery in the face of grave danger.

The attack took place on Tuesday in the Hatisalabeda forest near Milu village under the Karanjia forest range. Lili Soren, 41, and her husband Malde Soren, 48, had entered the forest to collect leaves and edible greens when they encountered a group of six wild bears.

According to local sources, one of the bears suddenly charged at Malde, knocking him to the ground and inflicting severe head injuries. With her husband bleeding heavily from deep scalp wounds, Lili chose to confront the animal instead of fleeing the scene.

Armed with a traditional axe she was carrying for foraging work, she repeatedly struck at the bear in an effort to drive it away. Her quick thinking and fearless response forced the animal to retreat into the forest, preventing further harm and potentially saving her husband’s life.

Villagers rushed to the spot after learning about the attack and assisted in transporting the injured man to a nearby hospital for initial treatment. Due to the seriousness of his injuries, he was later shifted to a larger medical facility in Keonjhar district. Health officials reported that his condition remains critical.

Lili sustained minor injuries during the confrontation and is said to be in stable condition.

Forest officials praised her bravery and presence of mind. Karanjia Range officials described her response as remarkable under life-threatening circumstances and highlighted the risks faced by communities living near forest habitats.

Human-wildlife encounters are not uncommon in forest-fringe villages where residents depend on forests for livelihood and daily needs. Officials have urged local communities to exercise caution while entering forest areas and to remain alert to wildlife movement.

Authorities also emphasised the importance of awareness programmes and preventive measures to reduce conflict between humans and wild animals. Experts suggest that increased monitoring, community education, and early warning systems can help minimise such dangerous encounters.

The incident has drawn widespread attention in the region, with residents praising Lili Soren’s courage and determination. Her actions underscore the resilience of forest-dependent communities and the everyday risks they face while gathering resources from nearby wilderness areas.