In the heart of Dushanbe, Tajikistan, an extraordinary bond between a man and a bear captivated the city for decades. The story of Talibshah Sheikhov and a bear named Maria became a symbol of friendship, compassion, and community spirit in the Tajik capital.
Many years ago, hunters in the mountains killed a female bear, leaving behind a tiny cub unable to survive on its own. Moved by compassion, Talibshah Sheikhov exchanged one of his goats to rescue the orphaned cub. He brought the bear home, naming her Maria, and raised her alongside his 13 children as a member of the family.
Maria was bottle-fed, slept with the children, and followed Sheikhov everywhere, becoming part of the household. As food in the mountains grew scarce, Sheikhov brought Maria to Dushanbe, where their unusual relationship quickly became the talk of the town. For the next 20 years, residents would witness the remarkable sight of an elderly man in traditional Tajik dress accompanied by a fully grown bear.
Maria became a beloved figure in the city, performing tricks in the streets, traveling alongside Sheikhov on buses, and even carrying him on her back. For children, she was a magical creature, while adults regarded her as a living legend. Their unique friendship made them icons of the city, so much so that locals eventually called for a statue to honor them.
The story, however, concludes in a bittersweet manner. After Sheikhov passed away at the age of nearly 80, Maria also died just two months later, as if unable to carry on without her lifelong companion. Their story endures as a powerful example of love, loyalty, and the bonds that transcend species, touching the hearts of all who hear it.
