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Chennai: The nation was heartbroken to hear of the tragic passing of Karuppi, the dog who became a beloved icon in the Tamil film ‘Pariyerum Perumal’. On Diwali, frightened by loud firecrackers, Karuppi ran into traffic in Tirunelveli and was fatally struck by a bus, as per a TOI. Her death has sparked widespread mourning on social media and showed the often-overlooked dangers pets face during festive seasons, especially in the face of loud fireworks.
Who Was Karuppi?
In the 2018 film directed by Mari Selvaraj, Karuppi’s character also meets a tragic end, symbolising the real-life struggles of caste oppression in rural India. Her on-screen fate involved a brutal end that symbolised innocence crushed under societal injustices. Karuppi, a native breed with striking black fur, was specifically chosen by Selvaraj for her symbolic significance, making her an unforgettable part of the film’s legacy. Fans and the film crew grew attached to her, especially actor Kathir, who played the lead role of Pariyan and shared a strong bond with her.
Karuppi's untimely demise sheds light on the dangers that animals face during festive events like Diwali. Her death resonated with fans who had come to love her through her role, with many turning to social media to express their sorrow. Phrases like "Rest in peace, Karuppi" and "May you find endless treats in dog heaven" flooded online platforms, with some netizens urging for more animal-friendly celebrations.
The Threat of Fireworks to Pets
Every year, during Diwali, pets and stray animals suffer due to the loud, frightening sounds of firecrackers. Animal rights groups, including Blue Cross India, have raised awareness about the physical and emotional toll these festivities take on animals, yet each year, incidents continue to be reported. Veterinary experts say pets can experience severe anxiety and disorientation due to fireworks, often fleeing their homes and getting lost or injured. Karuppi’s passing is, unfortunately, not an isolated incident; it reflects a larger issue that affects hundreds of animals who are often overlooked.
Veterinarians like Dr. Piyush Patel from Humane Society International/India advise pet owners to create a safe and calming environment for their animals during the festivities. Pets' sensitive hearing makes them highly vulnerable to loud sounds, which can lead to extreme stress and physical harm. Some, like Dr. Abhijit Pawde, a wildlife veterinarian, note severe cases where dogs have suffered eye damage or injuries trying to bite fireworks. Experts recommend pet owners keep their animals indoors, provide comforting toys, blankets, and avoid leaving them alone when fireworks are expected. If pets show signs of distress, consulting a veterinarian is highly advised.
A Call for Responsible Celebrations
Karuppi’s tragic end has not only prompted fans to mourn her but has also sparked discussions on how celebrations could be made safer for animals. As more people share their grief online, there is hope that her death serves as a reminder of the responsibilities humans have towards animals during festive times. For Karuppi’s fans, her passing is a deeply felt loss—a symbol of both innocence and resilience who touched countless hearts.