Bengaluru: A historic milestone has been achieved at Bannerghatta National Park, where the world’s first artificial leg surgery for a bear was successfully carried out. The patient, a sloth bear named Vasikaran, has now regained his natural mobility thanks to this groundbreaking medical innovation.
This achievement is being hailed globally as a perfect blend of science, compassion, and conservation.
The Bear’s Rescue Story
Vasikaran’s struggle began in 2019, when he was rescued from Bellary district after being trapped by poachers. The ordeal left him with severe injuries—his left hind leg was fractured, and his front leg was badly damaged. Despite receiving medical care, the bear was forced to survive on three legs, which took away his ability to climb, dig, and forage like other bears.
Over time, the imbalance put excessive pressure on his spine and knees, causing constant discomfort. For years, experts sought a way to give Vasikaran a chance at normal life again.
A Revolutionary Step in Veterinary Science
The turning point came in January 2025, when Derrick Kampana, an American orthopedic expert known for making prosthetic limbs for animals, arrived at Bannerghatta. After carefully studying Vasikaran’s condition, Kampana took up the challenge of designing a custom-made prosthetic leg for the bear, the first of its kind in the world.
“Every animal I work with teaches me something new. But making a prosthetic for a bear was one of the biggest challenges of my career. Watching Vasikaran walk, dig, and climb again is proof that this was worth it,” Kampana said.
The prosthetic fitting lasted three days. It was molded, tested, and adjusted until it matched Vasikaran’s gait. When the bear finally took his first steps with the artificial leg, his movement was completely natural—leaving everyone stunned.
Experts Applaud the Breakthrough
Officials and wildlife groups involved in the surgery described the outcome as a landmark in animal rehabilitation.
- A.V. Suryasen, Executive Director of Bannerghatta Biological Park, said the success proves how innovation and conservation can work together for animal welfare.
- Wildlife SOS, which supported the initiative, called the case historic. Its Co-Founder Karthik Satyanarayana remarked, “The prosthetic leg gave Vasikaran a second chance at life. His first natural walk after the surgery was nothing short of a miracle.”
- Dr. Arun Shah, Senior Veterinary Officer at Wildlife SOS, explained that the prosthetic relieved years of physical strain. “Walking on three legs was damaging his joints and spine. The artificial leg has restored balance and saved his future.”
Why This Matters Globally
This surgery has opened new doors in wildlife medicine. Across the world, many wild animals—whether elephants, tigers, or bears—suffer permanent injuries due to poaching, accidents, or human conflict. Until now, options for large disabled animals were extremely limited.
The world’s first artificial leg surgery for a bear has now proven that advanced prosthetic technology can successfully transform the lives of injured wildlife. Conservationists see this as the beginning of a new era in animal care.
Bannerghatta National Park’s Role
With this achievement, Bannerghatta National Park has gained international recognition as a hub where wildlife conservation meets modern science. The park has long been involved in rescue and rehabilitation, but Vasikaran’s case sets a new global standard.
Officials believe the success will inspire more collaboration between veterinarians, researchers, and conservationists around the world.
Vasikaran’s New Life
For Vasikaran, the artificial leg is more than a medical device—it is freedom. He has regained the ability to climb trees, dig the soil, and forage like a healthy bear. Once a victim of poaching, he is now a symbol of hope for countless animals that face similar struggles.
His journey reminds us that every individual life matters and that compassion, when combined with technology, can change the world.
Also read: Kaziranga National Park: A World Heritage Wonder of Assam
Quick Facts About the Surgery
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Bear’s Name | Vasikaran |
| Species | Sloth Bear (Melursus ursinus) |
| Location | Bannerghatta National Park, Bengaluru |
| Year Rescued | 2019 |
| Injury Cause | Poacher’s trap leading to multiple fractures |
| Specialist | Derrick Kampana, USA |
| Surgery Date | January 2025 |
| Duration | 3 days for prosthetic fitting |
| Supporting NGO | Wildlife SOS |
| Outcome | World’s first successful artificial leg surgery for a bear |
Also read: Top Wildlife Parks in India: Best Time, Safaris, and Travel Tips
Conclusion
The successful world’s first artificial leg surgery for a bear is more than a medical achievement—it is a landmark in the history of wildlife rehabilitation. Vasikaran’s transformation highlights what is possible when science and compassion come together.
From a poacher’s victim to a symbol of hope, Vasikaran’s story is set to inspire conservation efforts worldwide. Bannerghatta National Park has not only given one bear a new life but has also shown the path for the future of animal welfare on a global scale.
