NEW DELHI: Anuradha Rao, a fourth-generation resident of Andaman & Nicobar Islands, has earned the title of ‘Deer Woman‘ for her remarkable connection with the local deer population spanning over 25 years.
Anuradha Rao, whose paternal and maternal ancestors were brought to the Andamans as prisoners before India’s independence, has dedicated over 25 years to fostering a relationship with the island’s deer population.

“I am a fourth-generation resident of this island. My paternal and maternal ancestors were brought to the Andamans as prisoners before independence. I came here as a young child, I saw deer here and used to provide them with food. I had a great bond with the deer of this island. Two of my deer are 17 years old weighing 70 and 75 kgs each,” says Rao.
“For over 25 years, I patiently worked to gain the trust of the deer, spending time with them, feeding them, and understanding their behaviours. Today, the deer of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands no longer fear humans as they once did,” she adds.