An inspiring saga of compassion that comes alive with every sunrise at Buddha Jayanti Park, Malcha Mahal and the Delhi Ridge, New Delhi

Munish Kumar Gaur
Advocate & Former Civil Servant

Every morning, hundreds of people gather at Buddha Jayanti Park in New Delhi, nestled between Chanakyapuri and the Delhi Ridge, for their daily walk, jog, or exercise. They come in search of fresh air, good health, and peace of mind. Yet, hidden behind the park’s lush greenery and tranquil surroundings exists another world, one that most visitors never notice.

For hundreds of voiceless creatures, this park is not merely a place to wander; it is their home. Cows, bulls, calves, monkeys, foxes, dogs, cats, crows, and countless other birds have made Buddha Jayanti Park, Malcha Mahal, and the Delhi Ridge their permanent refuge for years.

Ironically, there is no organized provision for fodder, no permanent arrangement for drinking water, and no assured system of care for these animals. Despite the presence of several government and forest authorities, the survival of these helpless creatures continues to depend largely on the compassion of a few kind-hearted citizens.

It is often said, “When God creates a living being, He also provides for its sustenance.” More often than not, that provision does not arrive through miracles, but through ordinary human beings blessed with extraordinary compassion and an unwavering spirit of selfless service.

One such remarkable individual is Mr. Arun Soni, proprietor of R.C. Jewellers.

For nearly two decades, without seeking publicity, recognition, or appreciation, he has devoted every morning to the service of these voiceless beings. While most residents of Delhi are still asleep, Mr. Soni, accompanied by his staff, travels nearly seven to eight kilometres to reach Buddha Jayanti Park by 6:00 a.m.

His two vehicles carry far more than supplies , they bring hope, compassion, and humanity.

Every single day, he provides fresh green fodder and wheat bran for more than a hundred cattle, along with drinking water stored in 25 to 30 drums, each having a capacity of about 20 litres. Dogs, monkeys, birds, and other animals are fed bread, milk, green vegetables, bananas, seasonal fruits, and other nutritious food. Over the years, this has become not merely a routine but a lifelong commitment.

The bond nurtured through years of affection has created an extraordinary relationship between Mr. Soni and these animals. Every morning, they eagerly await his arrival. They recognize the sound of his footsteps, the familiar tone of his voice, and the warmth of his affection. To them, he is no visitor, he is a member of their family.

From time to time, a few other compassionate citizens also extend their support to this noble cause. Yet, Mr. Arun Soni’s uninterrupted, selfless, and unwavering service for nearly twenty years has transcended charity; it has become a lifelong act of devotion.

As the golden rays of the rising sun illuminate Buddha Jayanti Park, they herald not merely the beginning of another day but the dawn of compassion, humanity, and selfless service. While most of us begin our mornings thinking about our own responsibilities and aspirations, Arun Soni begins his day caring for those who cannot speak of their suffering, cannot complain, and cannot ask for help.

At a time when many social initiatives are often accompanied by publicity and public recognition, Mr. Soni’s quiet and humble service reminds us that genuine compassion seeks neither applause nor admiration, it seeks only an opportunity to serve.

Perhaps the true beauty of Buddha Jayanti Park lies not only in its magnificent trees, verdant landscape, and natural serenity, but also in the noble soul who has demonstrated through his daily actions that compassion is expressed not through words, but through consistent acts of selfless kindness.

Society Needs Many More Arun Sonis

People like Arun Soni restore our faith in humanity. They remind us that the true measure of any civilization is not how it treats the powerful and privileged, but how it cares for its weakest, most vulnerable, and voiceless living beings.

If every city, every neighbourhood, and every public park were blessed with even one Arun Soni, countless innocent animals would live safer, healthier, and more dignified lives. That is the essence of true humanity. That is selfless service. And that is the timeless message of India’s civilizational ethos.