The Mighty Buffalo: A Gentle Giant of Strength and Heart

The Mighty Buffalo: A Tale of Strength, Gentleness, and Mystery

By Huma Baloch

Dear children! Today, let’s talk about one of the most fascinating and misunderstood animals in the world — the buffalo. In Persian, it is called “Al-Jaamus,” and its plural form is “Al-Jawamees.” Interestingly, this same word is often used in Arabic as well. The buffalo is found in almost every part of the world, from the green plains of Asia to the muddy rivers of Africa. But did you know that the most superior breed of buffalo belongs to Pakistan? Yes, the famous Nili-Ravi buffalo from Sahiwal, a district in the province of Punjab, is known across the globe for its strength, beauty, and high milk production.

Most people know basic facts about buffaloes — that they give milk, are used in farming, and are large, powerful animals. But today, I want to share with you some lesser-known and fascinating truths about this gentle giant that might surprise you.

The buffalo is a symbol of strength. Its body is sturdy, its muscles are thick, and its horns curve like nature’s crown. Yet, despite its power, the buffalo is one of the most timid creatures in God’s creation. If a tiny mosquito bites it, the poor buffalo runs into the water, seeking safety and comfort. Even the sight of a lion makes it nervous. Strange, isn’t it? A beast so mighty, yet so fearful of the smallest insect or the fiercest predator.

But don’t mistake the buffalo for a fool. In truth, it is a highly intelligent and sensitive animal. It recognizes its owner’s voice and even understands their gestures. If the owner calls out from afar, the buffalo rushes toward them with affection and loyalty. This shows that the buffalo is not only noble in nature but also smart and emotionally connected to the people who care for it.

Buffaloes are also known for being deeply attached to their surroundings. Once they grow used to a place, they find comfort and safety there. They become so accustomed that moving them to a new location often makes them restless or sad. Even more touching is their maternal nature — a mother buffalo can stay awake all night to protect her calf. She stands guard, watching, ensuring no harm comes to her little one. Such devotion and care make the buffalo a beautiful symbol of motherly love and sacrifice.

Now, let’s explore some traditional wisdom about buffaloes — facts that have been passed down through generations. In rural communities, buffaloes are valued not just for their milk but also for their medicinal and practical uses. For instance, if you burn buffalo hide and use its smoke to fumigate the house, it is believed to kill all fleas and insects. Likewise, the fat of a buffalo, when mixed with rock salt, is used as a traditional remedy for skin diseases like rashes or itching. It is also said to help remove facial scars and blemishes.

Even in the world of dream interpretation, the buffalo holds a special meaning. Seeing a buffalo in a dream often represents a powerful person — someone who, despite their strength, is capable of enduring hardships and carrying heavy burdens. It symbolizes patience, endurance, and quiet power, qualities that often go unnoticed but are deeply valuable.

Different cultures have different names for the buffalo. In Urdu, it’s called “Bhains.” In Bengali, it’s known as “Sohesh.” In Punjabi, people lovingly refer to it as “Mujh,” while in Kashmiri, it’s called “Manish.” Each name carries with it centuries of respect, tradition, and connection between humans and this humble animal.

When we look closely at the buffalo, we realize it is much more than just a farm animal. It represents a balance between power and gentleness, fear and resilience, loyalty and emotion. It teaches us that true strength doesn’t mean being fearless — it means continuing to live, love, and serve others despite fear.

Imagine a buffalo standing knee-deep in a river during sunset, its reflection rippling in the water, its large eyes calm and thoughtful. It may not roar like a lion or run like a horse, but it stands tall, patient, and steady — a living example of quiet dignity.

In our modern world, where speed and aggression are often mistaken for strength, the buffalo reminds us of an important lesson: real strength lies in patience, kindness, and the ability to endure. Whether it’s a farmer depending on his buffalo for livelihood or a child drinking its milk every morning, the bond between humans and buffaloes remains one of mutual respect and deep gratitude.

So, dear children, the next time you see a buffalo — walking slowly through a field, or resting peacefully near a pond — remember that behind its calm eyes lies a world of emotions, intelligence, and history. The buffalo may seem ordinary, but it carries extraordinary wisdom about life, love, and the gentle strength that defines true greatness.