We hear a lot of things about gorakshaks in the mainstream media. Mostly they are portrayed as goons & hooligans disturbing innocent people, but their real story is quite deeply rooted in history. When did we start giving so much importance to cows? The truth is, we don’t know the exact moment, because as we look deeper into history, the tradition of cow protection becomes more evident—its roots stretching back thousands of years.
In the ancient Sanskrit play Raghuvansh, written by the great poet Kalidas, King Raghu, a Kshatriya ruler and ancestor of Shri Ram, endured great hardships to protect cows. This isn’t just a story; it reflects the deep reverence for cows in our cultural and religious heritage. Lord Parashuram, born to a Kshatriya mother and a sage father, fought battles to protect the sacred Kamdhenu cow. Shri Krishna, part of the Yadav dynasty, was raised among cows and deeply involved in their care.
The Kshatriya tradition of cow protection extended beyond India. The rulers of Nepal’s Kshatriya dynasty held the title “Gopal,” meaning “cow herder,” symbolizing their commitment to cow welfare. This tradition was upheld by Rajputs and Marathas, who fiercely protected cows as part of their duty.
Maharana Pratap, who resisted Mughal rule, took a strong stand against cow slaughter. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, at just 18 or 19, issued a decree waiving taxes on cow transport, showing his respect for the sacred animal. He also stated, “You should not take the shelter of cattle from Brahmins, they have been forgiven by the government,” reflecting his commitment to protecting cows.
The Marathas continued this tradition even after early struggles. During the reign of Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj, the empire stabilized, allowing leaders like Pilajirao Gaekwad to expand their territories. Gaekwad, who captured Baroda from the Mughals, was a dedicated cow protector. His surname itself—Gai-Kawad—means “one who takes cows under protection.” Even today, the Lakshmi Vilas Palace in Baroda proudly shares this legacy.
Mahadji Shinde, a key Maratha leader, played a crucial role in restoring Maratha strength after the Battle of Panipat. His influence was so strong that he tethered his horses at the Taj Mahal in Agra and imposed a ban on cow slaughter in the city. The Mughals had no choice but to comply.
From Ranjit Singh of Punjab to Shahu Maharaj of Kolhapur, rulers across India banned cow slaughter in their states, preserving this sacred tradition. Even today, NGOs, Vedic schools, and dedicated cow protectors continue this legacy, working with law enforcement to stop illegal cow smuggling. Their efforts ensure that this tradition remains alive.
As we celebrate Vasubarasa this year, let us remember these protectors — those who have upheld this tradition for generations. Their dedication is an inspiration.
Happy Vasubarasa! 🏵️
– Pratham Uvaach
