It is with great sadness that I report the death of another great conservationist at work.
Zahoor Kashmiri was darting elephants in Babille in Ethiopia where a little understood population of elephants was being studied. The work was a collaboration with Yirmed from Ethiopian Elephants blog. I spoke to Yirmed who told me that a well know aggressive single tusked bull attacked and killed my good friend who simply didn’t have a chance. For me this is one of the saddest days in the year. Some of you may recognize his name, Kashmiri (Zorro to some). He never charged a fee for his work and helped us save hundreds of animals from lions, cheetah, primates and elephants over the years. He helped us save Owen, the orphaned baby hippo and bring him to Haller Park where the famous relationship between the baby hippo and Mzee, a giant tortoise blossomed – Kashmiri features prominently in the video about Owen and Mzee on the Owen and Mzee website – he fixed Mzees shell and interprets Owens protective behaviour. We jokingly called him The Walrus of Diani, he had a rare charisma and a wonderful voice. It seemed like he was invincible.
Kashmiri with Brian Heath and a ranger in the Mara Triangle working on a lion
A call shattered my morning. It is almost impossible to believe he is gone. Just before he left for Ethiopia he told me about his plans to start a conservation NGO and dedicate all of his time to conservation. He’d just started a website which remains uncompleted. You see, though he was a qualified vet, Kashmiri’s real job was airport security and he was getting bored with it.
Conservation was just one of his passions, he saved animals that others would have put down. He also supported a number of unrelated charities like handicapped children especially cerebral palsy.
I have just left a message on his facebook. I know it’s too late, he won’t get it, but I didn’t get a chance to say goodbye. I’ll be at his funeral tomorrow, with hundreds of other people who also loved him and feel the loss of someone so important to the community and to conservation.
Donations made here are
Jan 28th Sheryl B USD 23.00
142 Comments
Oh my it has been a very hard Monday — all over the world -
it is a bad and sad thing to happen –
God has other plans sometimes — so very sorry – very sorry!
Oh Lord Paula…the bad news just continues today, doesn’t it? I am so sorry to hear about the death of your friend…he seems like a truly amazing human being and the world will be worse off without him, I am sure. My most heartfelt condolences and wishes for you to stay strong during these arduous days…so many need you.
Oh God, I am just heartbroken with Dr. Kashmiri’s passing. I met him a few years ago in the Mara, after we reported a young elephant with a snare on its back leg. The Doctor flew in from Mombassa, where he lived, the next day and he was kind enough to let us go out with him and the Rangers from Anne Kent Taylor’s organization, and try to find and treat the young ellie. Unfortunately, the young one was not captured and treated (although they searched for days). Another time we reported a lion with a badly injured paw and we again reported that – the paw has been caught in a snare and the lion chewed part of his toe off and that was the infection we saw. Again, we were there when the lion was treated and even our Guide from Kichwa helped.
Dr. Kashmiri was a wonderful person and his love of wildlife was undeniable. He will be greatly missed and his conservation work in the past will never be forgotten.
Rest in Peace Zorro and my sincere condolenses to his family and his many, many friends.
Such sad news! So sorry to hear this!
Also sending my heartfelt condolences and best wishes for you right now! Stay strong!
I am deeply saddened to hear of the untimely death of Zorro. I met him in 2005 when on holiday with family and friends. Unquestionably a great human being. I was in awe of his humble character and profound love for the animals he cared for in addition to his great charitable endeavors. The World, and Africa in particular is much poorer place without him. My sincerest condolences to his family and many friends. He was a larger than life type of person.
Rest In Peace dear Zorro
i met mr. kashmiri in 2004 on a holiday trip to kenya. he was a truly impressing person, my heartfelt condolences for you and all who suffer from the loss.
malte
Paula, I am so sorry to hear the news of Dr. Kashmiri’s passing. Just from what I know from the O&M blog and movie, he seemed such a warm and caring person. Please accept my heartfelt condolences. May Zorro rest in peace.
Why can’t the Lord take the likes of Nkunda or Mugabe, who deserve to leave us?
Please say a litte prayer for all of the O&M bloggers, who can’t attend his funeral.
… Jim
RIP another heartbreaking story………not sure how much more I can take……..I guess we all have a plan for us somewhere….he must be in a special place for being such a helpful man!
Thank you for your kind thoughts everyone. It’s true that whoever Kashmiri met, he touched in some way. He had an infectious enthusiasm and was one of those people who just had to help no matter what the problem. He will be missed by everyone and Kenya has lost one of her most valuable resources.
Paula
I am so distraught over the untimely death of Dr. Kashmiri who I feel like I had come to know so well through our journey with Owen and Mzee. Even though I only met him once in Mombasa he felt like a new old friend who will remain with me forever. Please extend our condolensces to everyone.
Sadly, Craig
C’est avec beaucoup de tristesse que nous avons appris le décès de Kashmiri.
Kashmiri, tu nous manques déjà !
Quelle triste journée d’apprendre la disparition d’un ami, d’un homme de valeur, de générosité comme Kashmiri.Toujours présent pour les autres, pour les enfants, pour les plus démunis mais aussi pour la vie sauvage.
Pour moi le Kenya sera différent sans toi.Tu nous manques déjà beaucoup.
Condoléances à toutes sa famille et ses proches.
So sad day to learn the death of a real good friend, a man of value, of generosity like Kashmiri.
Always present of others, for the children, for the poors but also for the wildlife.
For me Kenya will be different without you.
We already miss you too much.
Condoleansces to his family and friends.
Manu, Elda, Ronny
Oh Paula I feel only part of the huge loss you are experiencing now. And its a very heavy feeling. I can`t imagine how you and all those who knew him better, must be feeling now,but I wish you all the strength to carry on.
Kashmiri had such a wonderful air about him.He had the ability of creating an atmosphere of trust,and safety where ever he was, and what ever the situation.It wasnt only in his gentle gruff voice, but also in his manner and deeds,his fairness and respect to everyone and everything,which made him such an extraordinary person.
Yes Kenyas people and wildlife have lost a most valuable person,… it`s still very hard to beleive. But it comforts me to think that now he is together with those whom he tried to save, who passed away before him.His spirit will live on,….it will glow in the wildlife,parks,safaris and conservation forever, …thanks to him.
We received the news yesterday from Aisha Khan (we have moved to the UK). We are truly saddened, and it is Kenya’s wildlife that will be greatly affected.
We remember the time when we came across a lame buffalo in Shimba Hills. It had a nasty snare around it’s leg and was in a lot of pain. One call to Kashmiri (it was late Sunday afternoon) and within one hour he had travelled from his home to help the animal. Darting the buffalo proved very difficult as it persisted in hiding amongst the dense bush, but Kashmiri persevered, even though the light was fading. Through sheer determination he managed to dart the animal, and the snare was successfully removed. He cleaned the wound and administered the antibiotics. The buffalo was expected to make a full recovery. Another animal’s life saved by Kashmiri!
Dear friends of “Daktari”,
I heart the message just yesterday evening. As you know. unfortunately bad news travels fast. My family is meanwhile living in Germany. We lived in Kenya from 1995 till 2000 and after visited Kenya and of course “Daktari” several times after. He was our “wedding whitness” in 1998.
We are sad and very shocked to hear about this tragical accident he had yesterday. The only salvation is, that he died while doing what he always wanted to do – saving Kenya´s wildlife. Daktari will always be alive in our hearts.
May he rest in peace.
Eddy, Irina and Chantal Ellender from Germany
What can I say. Sorry seems so inadequate. I am so deeply saddened and shocked that the world has lost this wonderful man. It will be a much poorer place without him.
I had the great pleasure to spend a very few days with him when he was working in the Mara on several occassions and of being a guest at his home in Mombasa, and have nothing but the greatest respect and admiration for his great ability and skill.
I have many happy memories – like driving with 6 Alsation dogs for him from Nairobi to Mombasa in a car!- or the time he spayed a stray beach cat for me to stop her having litter after litter of kittens,- or getting a call from him when I was in the Mara and he was stranded at Mara Buffalo airstrip when his vehicle hadn’t turned up, and then we drove around all day searching for a sick cheetah. It was always a pleasure to be involved and to help in some small way
His quiet charm and charisma impressed all who knew him and there will be a big empty space in our lives now. May his God be with him and bless him – good men are hard to find.
My sincere condolences to all his family and friends.
Diana
It is with an aching pain in my heart and tears in my eyes that I’m reading everyone’s messages and kind thoughts. You all knew Dr. Kashmiri as a dear friend and colleague – to me he was my dearest uncle. We, his family, are in shock and disbelief at this wonderful man’s untimely death. We have been left devestated but we take little consolation in the fact he died doing what he loved and lived for. Although this unique human being will be buried shortly, his spirit will forever wonder amongst the Kenyan wildlife and trees.
Mamu, i dont know if I told you often enough how much you meant to me and how much I loved you. Miss you forever, Nonny.
Mein Mitgefühl gilt seiner Familie. Zahoor war ein großartiger Mensch, ein erfahrener Tierfreund und ein einzigartiger Umweltschützer!
Er sagte noch – “bis dann” Nur vergaß er zu sagen wo und wann!
JR
It is sad indeed. Very sad that one of the greatest wildlife vets on this part of the world should pass on so suddenly. Paula is in Mombasa – Zorro’s home – today to attend his burial and to be with the family in this trying time.
RIP Zorro, you have left a legacy.
I am so touched by all these comments and all the different affectionate names we all knew him by
We must keep his name and what he stood for alive. I would like to set up a special blog in Kashmiri’s name to raise funds to enable wildlife vets across Africa so that his work can be continued. I will let you all know about this right here on Baraza blog. paula
Kashmiri was a true friend to wild animals and a real gentleman. Anyone who had the good fortune to know Kashmiri either professionally or personally cannot fail to have been touched by his compassion, his humanity and his humour. His loss will be felt far and wide. Personally and on behalf of the Born Free Foundation I send my most sincere and heartfelt condolences to his family at this tragic time. Will
Kashmiri was a true friend to wild animals and a real gentleman. Anyone who had the good fortune to know Kashmiri either professionally or personally cannot fail to have been touched by his compassion, his humanity and his humour. His loss will be felt far and wide. Personally and on behalf of the Born Free Foundation I send my most sincere and heartfelt condolences to his family at this tragic time. Will Travers
How so very sad that he who saved them when they were in distress should die under the feet of one of them. From the time of Owen and Mzee, Kashmiri has seen many an animal in distress back to their feet.
Rest in Eternal Peace.
To me… to so many people who worked with him, knew him, and loved him, Kashmiri seemed bullet-proof. His barrel-chest, his dry-gravel voice and his walrus mustache commanded respect. He always seemed in control, but never with aggression and always with humility. He always seemed to know exactly what was going on and exactly what to do, whether it was handling an angry wounded buffalo, or tracking a giraffe with a spear in its back-side. So to lose Kashmiri like this seems unjust, unfair and cruel. But the comments here show that his passion, his commitment to wildlife and his legacy will live on in the way he influenced everyone who knew him. It is small consolation for those of us who’ll miss him dearly, but through that alone, Kashmiri will get at least some of the immortality he deserves.
Rest in Peace, Zorro…
what a great loss for conservation. i read about zorro on the Owen and Mzee blog – i send my condolences to his family and friends at this tragic time – wildlife lost a true friend – it is a sad day.
I am really upset and very sad .
Zahoor dead?In the morning I got a phone call from colleague
Dr.Kasa Lörrach who also knew him well.
I met “Zorro” several times in Kenia and remember great evenings
on his ranch near mombasa.In april this year we met here in Achern Germany to do some business .
We had plans to do some more in future.
Now we have to face the cruel fact of his passing away.
I will never forget him.He was a great guy , colleague and friend.
Christian
Zahoor was atruly remarkable man.Every time I met him was like time spent with a brother. His kind-heartedness and generosity touched us all. Allah has taken away amuch loved and admired man. May he rest in Jannah. Ameen. He has left a void in all our lives that we will not be able to fill, suffice that A llah gives his family and friends subur[patience] to overcome this loss. Kenya has lost a truly great conservationist.
Dear Zahoor’s family and friends,
I just received the devastating message from Zahoor’s death and I am so endlessly shocked and sad. I have been in close contact with him for around 1.5 years and we had made plans for cooperation in animal rescue after I finish my education. He and his friend Monica just visited me recently in Leipzig, Germany.
I cannot believe that he is gone!!! My eyes are full of tears. What a loss for the wildlife in Kenya and the whole world!
I think it would have been his deepest wish that others continue his dream of helping animals in Africa and make the people there more aware how important it is to safe the wildlife.
Who will now take care of the hundreds of cats at the hotels in Mombassa? Lots of them are in a horrible condition.
We all, his friends, should come together somehow to continue his mission in a way possible.
My sincere condolences to all his family and friends, Kathrin from Germany
we met again after 12 long years and it was the most amazing 2 weeks. maliha was 4 when she last saw him and at 16 she fell in love with him again as her ‘uncle zorro’ we had promised to meet again at christmas but it was never to be! santa met him for the first time and said he never felt so touched by another human being so quickly!! we are praying for his family, may allah give them sabr and may allah rest his soul in peace. we loved and cared for this amazing human being …. mombasa will never be the same again.
http://www.kashmiri-wildlife.com
Just reading these most amazing tributes leaves me feeling immensely humbled and proud of my “mamu” a great great man. His presence, his charm, his laughter, that voice and his hugs will be truly missed. He has impacted on so many lives in so many ways that words alone can not give testimony to what he means to us all.
If ever someone could leave a permanent “footprint” on this earth – my uncle achieved it. He will be with God now, looking after all the animals, being favourite uncle to all the children and everyone’s brother. My God bless him and keep him safe to continue his work and enthusiam. May we all remember well into our old age the impact this man has had on our lives and how insignificant the worries are in our lives when one looks at what he has achieved and cared for. The world feels a poorer place today and the grief is so very painful. I love you Mamu and will miss you dearly…..Papu
What more can I possibly say about this most wonderful man, who touched the world in a way no one ever will again… I just wish I could hear his voice one more time… I just wish there was a way I could tell you how much I love you Mamu and how proud of you we all are… x
Our beautiful Mamu has gone……the news has devastated us all. I pray from the bottom of my heart that your soul finds eternal peace. It’s hard to believe that we will never see you again but your memories will remain with us forever. Even though I hadn’t seen you recently you have, like to many, made an unforgettable impression on our lives. I Love You Mamu…..you will be missed forever.
I really don’t know what to say…i can’t believe it was only two short weeks ago that we were sitting in your beautiful home eating dinner and cracking jokes, trying to see who could eat the hottest chutney. I still can’t comprehend what’s happened. Never, in my wildest dreams, did I think I would never see you again.
I will never forget the way you would light up a room with your mere presence and this world was the richer for knowing you. You had an infectious and beautiful personality which touched every person you ever met.
Our family’s loss in incomprehensible and we will all miss you dearly. I will always love you and will miss you forever my beautiful mamu.
I knew Zahoor in the Mara when we helped an injured Cheetah. Within 12 hrs of us discovering the injured Cheetah, he flew to the Mara from Mombasa and did all he could to save the cheetah. His dedication was unmatched, his passion unbridled and most of all, he was an amazing human being dedicated to the conservation of Africa’s animals. Although we are still mourning his passing, may I suggest that a memorial fund be set up in his name to help finance other dedicated wildlife vets.
pas de mot pour exprimer la douleur que je resents pour kashmiri.
Il restera à jamais un grand “monsieur”à mes yeux.
My deepest condolences to Zahoor Kashmiri’s family and friends. I did not even know him, or know of him. I went to this wildlifedirect website to find out more about the Army leaving the Congo, and this is where I first read about this man. What a wonderful person he was; and how sad it is that the world had to loose him. I am here in California, working an office job and can only dream of living the life he did. What an honor to spend a lifetime working with animals — and not just any animals, but true wildlife. Here in America, where so many people place their idols upon materialism and celebrity; it saddens me that the real heros (or idols) are not recognized. I will share his story with my friends, and family so they will also know of Zahoor Kashmiri’s life. This is a person that should never be forgotten. What a loss for not only his family, but for all the animals too. A piece of me has changed today, after reading this and learning of his life. I will remember his face, and his story for as long as I live.
The morning Uncle Moppi was leaving to catch the flight to Ethiopia he took off his watch, gave it to me and said, “Here, keep this for me, I dont want to lose it there. I’ll get it from you when I come back.”
I miss you, it will never be the same again. Allah had to use the biggest of land animals to take your life, that’s how special you are. And you were doing what you love.
Thakyou everyone for the beautiful thoughts. I could write so much here, but I am still discovering just how many lives he touched (not just the animals’) and I’m now understanding that he wouldn’t have had it any other way. Still, we will all miss him…
Love you Uncle Moppi…
Still in shock two days later. Uncle Zorro will always be remembered as our very own Dr. Dolittle. We always had so much fun at the ranch, the dinners under the stars, he always had friends there. He will be greatly missed by all.
I cannot find the words to expres the deep sense of grief I felt on hearing this sad, sad news. His kindness and generosity of spirit will be missed by many. So many good memories – and a kindness even to strangers. I was sharing a vehicle once with him on the Mombasa ferry on the way to Shimba when an old man approached us and said ”please, I am so hugry” – sure enough, Zorro reached into his top pocket where he kept a supply of small notes, and gave him a few shillings just for the asking. Such was his pleasure, to help any living being in need.
This was just a small part of the majic of the man- respected, admired and loved by all who knew him. Once met, never forgotten, a huge empty space now exists in my life.
My sincerest condolences to all his family and friends – I wallow in grief but consider myself lucky to have known him at all.
‘Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, Love Leaves a memory no one can steal’.
Mopi, you will always remain in our hearts and your loss will always be felt by the whole family. Rest in Peace Mopi (Innaa lillaahi wa innaa ilayhi raaji’oon)
From your dearest sister Waheeda and Batti xxx
It is with great shock and Disbelieve that today we have buried our friend Honorary Rtn Dr Zahoor we in the Rotary fraternity have lost a fellow Rotarians who has done so much to promote the spirit of Rotary of SERVICE BEYOND SELF
He will be greatly missed by all.
We only met Dr Kashmiri once, but will never forget him. News of his tragic death is a huge shock. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends.
Allah sent you, Uncle Mopi, to look after his creatures…he then asked one of his creatures to send you back to him. Perhaps Allah wanted you back so soon because he had bigger and better plans for you. You will be forever in our hearts and prayers. Zahra XX
Uncle Mopi
You were such an inspiration to us all and your loss will always be felt as memories of you echo in our minds. Words not said in the given time make our hearts more heavier with grief – we never told you how much we love you and how proud we were of you, your achievements, and of the work that you did with all those that needed you most. You have left an irreplaceable void in our hearts and lives…
Mamu, May you rest in peace (Innaa lillaahi wa innaa ilayhi raaji’oon)
with love from Faika, Rauf, Shelly, Amjad, Saira, Papoo, Raveeda, Tahir, Zeba, Haroon, and all your grand nieces and nephews. xxx
I am sad, I met him one year ago when i worked for African Safari Airways, an airline..I used to go every week in Mombasa and I met him in the airport, and then at the hotel, with my colleagues..i spent a few evenings with him, i have been amazed by his charisma and kindness, the flame in his eyes..hes one of my best memory from Kenya, and two days ago only i was watching a photo of him and me hugging in a restaurant..I know many people feel the same about him and that millions of thoughts are dedicated to him today…
Dr Kashmiri, we will never forget you, you are in our hearts…Sarah
What a tremendous loss for the wildlife conservation community and an even greater loss to the animals.
I concur with Dr. Butt’s suggestion above that a memorial fund should be set up to encourage and nurture future dedicated wildlife vets.
Katherine
Yes, Wanda, God has other purposes sometimes… Without doubt Dr. Zahoor Kashmiri’s mission in Earth is finished. And now he is in the sky.
I am at the airport in Mombasa going through the amazing comments you have all left here. My eyes are filling up with tears again. His funeral was one of the most serene I’ve ever been to. I thought I knew Kashmiri well, but I met so many people who were close to him, his social circles were vast, and unrelated, rotarians, wildlife, tourism, cerebral palsy, his family, business, muslim community, Indian community, …people had flown in from UK, Nairobi and other places. His presence could be felt though all of those who loved him as they gathered to pay their last respects. I discovered how hard, no impossible it is to console those closest to him. Yes we will set up a memorial fund to keep his work and his spirit alive. I will contact you all to let you know when this is up. Thank you all, I feel like he is smiling down on us left behind, realising just how much he touched and inspired all of us. Paula
R.I.P Zorro.
Zorro has been one of my dad’s friends since a long time before I was born and I’ve always known him as a jolly “uncle” and a good friend of the family. We always had fun with him and I’m sure he’d want all of us to have a drink for him and a damn good meal too instead of being sad. It was a sad way to go but he certainly went with honour and I’m proud to have known him.
I’m glad to hear that there will be a fund set up to help other wildlife vets like Zorro.
Its been very sad since i heard this bad news. We met him 3 weeks ago and its unbelievebale that he is no more.
We are proude on you mapi you died doing what you loved doing the most.
you will always be remeberd.
May god rest his soul in peace…. Ameen.
c’est une bien triste nouvelle pour nous.elle fait parti de ces journees ou l’on se dit pourquoi?pourquoi retirer la vie a un homme aussi merveilleux que toi.tu nous as transmis tellement de choses.tu m’as appris que le bonheur etait le simple accord entre un etre et l’existence qu’il mene.avec toi j’ai compris qu’il ne suffisait pas de denoncer l’injustice.il fallait donner, vouer sa vie pour la combattre.je me rejouis de t’avoir connu et suis si triste de t’avoir perdu.tu m’as acceuillis dans ta famille;tes amis comme un des tiens,merci.je regretterais tous ces bons moments que nous n’aurons plus.tu me manques.
tu fais parti de ces etres qui marquent l’existence d’un homme.
a la naissance de notre fils tu lui as offert un livre sur”owen et mzee”avec une dedicace de ta main,tu y as inscrit:”nils may you grow-up to love animals”nous lui enseignerons et transmettrons ce beau message qui tout a fait a l’image que tu etait,un homme bon,simple,respectueux,genereux,sage et particulierement humain.nous lui raconterons les aventures du grand :daktari kashmiri,mamus,zorro,zahoor.
mombasa,le kenya ne seras plus jamais le meme sans toi zahoor.
sinceres condolences a toute la famille et amis.
zahoor repose en paix.
Janin audrey et nils
it is a very very sad news for us . it is a part of these days where you tell why?why remove life to a wondreful man like you.
you passed us so many things.you told me that happines was the simple agrement between a being and existence he haves on the way.with you i undrestood it was not enough to denounce the injustice,it was necessary to devote his life to combat it.i am delighted to haves you know,and so sad to lost you.i regret all these goods times than we will not have any more.you introduce me to your familly and your friends like one of yours.thank you.i miss you zahoor.you do these beings parties which mark the existence of a man.when our son was born?you gives him a book on “owen and mzee”with a dedication of your hand and you writte :”nils may you grow-up to love animals” we teach him and pass on this beautiful message that was quite a picture that you was a good man,simple,respectfull,generous,wise and especially a human man.we explain him the adventures of major daktari kashmiri,mamus,zorro,zahoor.mombasa and kenya will never be the same without you zahoor.
sinceres condolences to all familly and friends.
Rest In Peace Zahoor.
Dr. Kashmiri was an uncle to me. It is a great loss to us and from what I have read to many others.
Any time we had a problem, we turned to him for help, we are lost without him.
He was buried yesterday, and yet I feel that it isn’t true that all this is just a horrible dream.
He will be greatly missed by all.
may Allah rest his soul in eternal peace. Ameen.
Sameer and shahana
Just like a soldier who dies in war or in the line of duty so you die doc. Rest in peace.
I am so sorry to hear this news. My family new Dr Kashmiri very well, he was our vet for all our dogs in Mombasa and was a family friend! Am absolutely shocked.
At least he died doing what he loved.
He will be missed!
“A great man who will be missed but not forgotten”.
Our heartfull condolences to all his family. May Allah give you all the courage abd strength to tide over this extreme loss and grief. Ameen.
Nadia and Humayun
We all at the Ethiopian wildlife Conservation Authority [EWCA] were very shocked with the tragic death of Dr Zahoor Kashmiri, who is our great supporter of our conservation effort here in Ethiopia, particularly in Babille Elephant Sanctuary. As EWCA, we have lost [similar to our brothers and sisters in Kenya did!] a great conservationist and supporter who is particularly specialized on elephants. The deep pain that is felt at the death of Dr Zahoor soul arises from the feeling that is inexpressible. We all at EWCA embrace his pain and sorrow together with his beloved families and friends across the globe. May god rest his soul in peace? He will be remembered for ever for his good works here in Ethiopia.
Here a nice program of 30 minutes from french TV called TF1 where you can see Kashmiri in the bush doing his passion, helping animals and teaching 2 youngs french vet learning with him.
In this program you will see him in the bush and also at his ranch next to Mtwapa.
Manu,
The webside is:
http://videos.tf1.fr/video/emissions/0,,3312020,00-reportages-vetos-savane-.html
I agree with serveral of the previous comments … I think a veterinary scholorship should be set up in Dr. Kashmiri’s name and offered to poor and underpriviledged students who have great passion for animals, but who might not otherwise be able to attend university … May I also extend my condolenses to his friends and family … surely, he is measured by all the lives he has touched in such wonderful ways.
What a great idea Jim from Mass USA. I’ll pledge to that and start the ball rolling with $500 a year for 5 years to help any such student in his name if someone is in a position to orchestrate such a scholarship.
I think he would have liked that. The world is a poorer place without him and I can’t think of a more fitting memorial to reflect all his good works.
May he be at peace now and God bless.
am a vet practising at mtwapa and have known dr kashmiri since my student days in the 80s.he was such a wonderful profesional who was always ready to share his knowledge with others.he has left a big vacuum in the veterinary practise in this country.may almighty rest his soul in eternal peace.amen.
Innalahi wa innalelahi rajihuun.
Our brother has left this world and has reached the destination to which we are all headed. As his brothers, how can we express our loss? He has left all of us so much poorer. Allah, in his infinite wisdom, has plucked a star from among us, a man who was universally loved and respected. He was one of a rare breed of men who leave the world a better place than they found it. He benefits from the prayers of the thousands of friends he made in life, both human and animal.
For the family this loss is hard to accept but accept it we must for it is part of Allah’s plan and even though it seems cruel to us in this world, we have been promised that Allah’s wisdom will become clear to us in the Akhirat. We draw strength from this promise and from our eemaan.
Whether you knew him as Zorro, Zahoor, Daktari or Muppy (as we affectionately called him in the family), to know him was to love and admire him. Knowledgeable, kind and humble at the same time, he was our source of pride. We feel robbed but ask Allah for patience and strength. Innallaha ma sabireen.
May Allah shower him with mercy and grant him a favoured place in Jannah, Ameen.
I met Kashmiri 20 years ago as a student. He took me under his wings gave me a job and set my life up. I worked for him for 6 years then he told me i was a big enough boy to stand on my own. The energy the man had, i have not seen matched. A man who knew how to enjoy both life and work, his pace relentless. A colleague to cherish, a mentor an encyclopia. If he wrote his memoirs James Herriot would enjoy to read. Mahnaz,Andrew ,Bella, Patrick, Felix, myself and others, the times we shared at the coast and more so in Kongowea, will we ever see a bigger star? Rest in peace Daktari
May Allah grant my beloved brother a place in the cool shade of jannah. Ameen.
I have only just returned from Kenya where I stayed with my brother Muppy for two months during which he made sure that my every need was catered for. I got married there during this time and he organised every detail meticulously and hosted the wedding and reception singlehandedly. All who attended were impressed with the arrangements. His home in Mtwapa, a paradise on earth, was at my disposal and I was not allowed to feel the burden of any of the work or expense involved.
This is just the latest example of Zahoor’s great generosity and it was not limited to family mambers. His kindness extended to strangers and all those in need of his help, including the animals he loved so much. Conservation of the environment and of wildlife was not just a profession for him but the passion and purpose of his life. It is the mark of a truly kind and generous man that he shows compassion and gives of his own wealth, time and talent to those who cannot personally benefit him in return.
Goodbye my brother, my friend, my example, my advisor, my helper and my comfort. I will miss you terribly.
The extended family and I have suffered a truly immense loss and we can only pray for strength and perseverence from Allah. We draw on our eemaan and our trust that Allah will bestow rewards on him beyond our comprehension. Ameen.
What a man! A true giant in character, spirit and courage.
We pray that Allah grant mercy to our Daktari and give him a special place in Jannah. May Allah give his whole family and all his friends, employees and all others who are grieving his passing the strength to endure this incomprehensible loss.
Few people die doing what they love doing most and Daktari certainly is one of the few. I am sure that if he had been asked in life to choose between dying in bed of a disease or dying while working with his beloved animals, he would have had little difficulty making his choice.
He left us too soon but he lived a useful and constructive life. In his own words on his new website, he says, ‘I have lived life to the full’.
May Allah grant him peace and forgive him his human shortcomings and reward him well for his kindness to fellow humans and all the other creatures of Allah. Ameen.
We could not write before… the pain too deep inside. Forgive us Zahoor. Your friends since many years, we will miss the warm nights spent talking around the table, dreaming of conservation projects… We will miss our safaris. It is true what most of the people have written: Mombasa will never be the same without you.
But your presence is all around and will never leave us. We will work for keeping alive all the things that you treasured most.
Sad and hard to believe. Dr. Kashmir was a hardworking guy with great determination on whatever he did. Some would call ´tough but I think somebody has already described here what made him sound tough; his unique loud and clear voice. Such are just but a few of the things you can’t find easy replacement when one dies.
I Know Kashmir from ASC where I worked with him. We were not so close as friends but I admired his personality. I’m sure he inspired many more others. A big loss to the world
I’m just heartsick. This is so sad. My prayers and sypathies go out to his family and all of those who had the good fortune to know this great man. God bless him for everything he did for ALL the animals.
i can’t believe that my dear uncle mopey has gone.it came as a shock to me..my dad in law received the call and i was standin right there.what he said totally blew me away.my uncle gone…. I remember those fun times we used to share at the shamba…uncle mopey would show us vids of his trips and we wud all be amazed by it all. I went to vuma with him once.it was so much fun.we were all there sittin n chattin.how can i forget such a kind and lovable uncle.id only knwn him for 2 yrs bt i felt like id knwn him my whole life.he was that special.. I cudnt stop cryin at his funeral,seeing him for d last time and remembrn all d gud times. Il realy mis u dear uncle,life will nevr b d same again..may Allah kip u happy,ameen.. Love u forevr n hope to meet u smeday in a place full of love..
It is so hard to believe that uncle Moppy is no more!! Such an important person in everyones life.He was such a hard working,helpful,great gentleman,and it is imposibly unbelievable to imagine a man who was always on the move,helpin others and so dedicated in his work, is lying still in his grave today. I think im dreamin,i cant believe he’s gone forever. Ive had very good times at his ranch with him & our familys every Sundays. Now everything has changed,i dont think our lives will be the same without him. He will be missed alot alot and alot. Such a great loss. May Allah grant him jannah and rest his soul in peace. Ameen.
Yesterday i laid to rest a special friend, relative, mentor, college mate, big brother, generous host, hero and so many wonderful undescribable things for me.! The torrent of emotions and rush of events to his burial since the sad news was overwhelming.! Now reading the warm comments of Moppi’s hundreds of “friends” I sincerely thank Allah for the priviledge to have been close to such a gem of a man for many years. Daktari even competed with me in a rally car many years ago and encouraged me on my way to becoming multiple National Rally champion and Safari rally winner. More recently I drove him to collar elephants in Samburu as well as translocate rhinos from Nairobi park. His competence in the wild was almost unreal.! [I filmed his work] The lives he managed to touch personally just amazes me. I am keen to collect all memoirs and material [stories, photos, film] available on Dr. Kashmiri’s life and his work from relatives and friends. Making a book and /or documentary would be most fitting tributes to our beloved Zorro.! However not having a literary gift, could I request advise and comments.?
uncle moppy was a great inspiration to all of us. He meant the world to our entire extended family,he held us together and always had a beautiful smile on his face. I remember how we reliegously gathered at the farm every Sunday,the whole family. We would always have a great time,Inshallah we will keep your dreams alive and always stay together as a unit! On Fridays we would all go to this place called Vuma which he useto love so much,and i remember i useto wait for him to join us cause he was always so well prepared. Sandwich’s,and snacks,soda’s and all..he’d make sure all of us had something to eat. I remember the last trip we had together to vuma,he told us about his trip to Europe,and he sounded so happy,he told us all about how he had a great time there,i still remember his words. I cant believe he isnt with us anymore! i still feel as though this has not happened. He was a father figure to many, and as boys we could share anything and everything with him. Nothing but tears come to our eyes when we think about all the great things he has done for us! we miss you so much uncle moppy.we miss you so much,U WILL ALWAYS BE IN OUR HEARTS,You have all said some beautiful things about him,and they feel so good to hear! May Allah grant him Jannah,AMEEN.
Hilary Brahmbhatt (Mombasa – England) I have known Zorro for 34 years and he was compassionate, kind and supportive especially in my hour of need. Nothing was too much trouble for him and he had a heart of gold. Whilst trying to keep his macho image he didn’t fool me, underneath was a gentle soul. He was comfortabale in his own skin which enabled him to go off to be with his animals, his first love. He was a proud Muslim who religiously fasted during the holy month of Ramadhan. So for him to die with his animals during this holy month is my only consolation for the deep and utter loss of a truly great man. I have no doubt whatsoever that Allah will keep him safe. Goodbye my friend you will never be forgotten by my family. Ameen.
Sincere condolences to the family of Dr. Kashmiri.
C ‘ est avec un grande douleur que j ai appris ta dispartion. Je salue l homme , sa grandeur, sa generosite . Tu nous a fais vivre de sacrée expériences depuis bien longtemps. le kenya nous l l ‘avons aimé grace a toi.Repose en paix tu le mérite.
Je sais que tu seras toujours là et que ton ame nous la sentirons en regardant simplement le ciel.
Nous avons tous aimé kash et tu restera a vie dans notre coeur et notre mémoire.
Dear Paula and all,
I felt deeply upset the whole day yesterday 04/09/08 after Adam one of the staff working at the Colobus Trust and who has worked with Dr. Kashimiri before, conveyed the sad news of my friend’s death.
I thought this was a bad morning joke but decided to ring Moses Litoro of Kenya Wildlife Service to confirm the bad news. My hopes were shattered when Moses confirmed the sad news.
I have lost a very dear friend whom I have worked with for many years in Kwale and shortly in Kimana Wildlife Sanctuary. I have always found myself running to Dr. Kashimiri when faced with professional challenges relating to wildlife vet care even at the Colobus Trust. Recently we met and he had agreed to visit the Colobus Trust to review our none-human primates rescue, rehabilitation and release strategies but now this will not take place. My friend is gone for ever, but his conservation spirit will live on.
I mourn the passing on of a real friend and a dedicated conservationist.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.
Macharia, o.k.
Dear Paula and all,
I felt deeply upset the whole day yesterday 04/09/08 after Adam one of the staff working at the Colobus Trust and who has worked with Dr. Kashimiri before, conveyed the sad news of my friend’s death.
I thought this was a bad morning joke but decided to ring Moses Litoro of Kenya Wildlife Service to confirm but also hoping this was just but a rumour. My hopes were shattered when Moses confirmed the sad news.
I have lost a very dear friend whom I have worked with for many years in Kwale and shortly in Kimana Wildlife Sanctuary. I have always found myself running to Dr. Kashimiri when faced with professional challenges relating to wildlife vet care even at the Colobus Trust. Recently we met and he had agreed to visit the Colobus Trust to review our none-human primates rescue, rehabilitation and release strategies but now this will not take place. My friend is gone for ever, but his conservation spirit will live on.
I mourn the passing on of a real friend and a dedicated conservationist.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.
Macharia, o.k.
Life is about give and receive. Love and be loved. Plus and minus. You and the family. So here’s to all those who have passed on, for it is in heaven they will be. Be strong Allah will favour thee.
We will miss You everyday Chacha, remember you for the best things in life and we love You!
Saqib and Faiza
Azar, we have some photos and footage also. I think your idea is brilliant and would love to be part of your book/film project. We can make them both available online for all of those who love and admire Kashmiri (I still can’t believe he’s gone). We also intend to start a fund for wildlife veterinarians in Africa so that his work can continue. I am also volunteering Peter Greste – we will get in touch with you by email shortly. Regards, Paula
I remember the time when my Uncle Pola Darr had gathered all of us cousins at his place in Nairobi after the wedding of one of my cousins and Uncle Moppey (Zorro) was also there. It was one of his occassional visits to Nairobi and he was in a very relaxed mood. Uncle Pola and Uncle Moppey, apart from being just cousins, were also best of friends from childhood. We sat on the balcony of that beautiful penthouse apartment where Uncle Pola was cooking his famous chicken dish and they both told us of the things they did as youngsters and all the mischief they got up to. Uncle Moppey had a very charismatic personality and he could relate to the young and old alike. He was of my dad’s generation but we felt that he was our age mate. He loved animals and people dearly and always talked about the conservation projects that he was working on and the work he was doing with the wildlife. He was totally dedicated to his work. He had the most amazing sense of humour and the uncanny ability to draw people to himself and to his ideas. That evening while we were munching on the chicken, he explained to us how he used to dart animals both from the land and from the air and left us total amazement. He was a real action man with the heart of gold and all of us youngsters were always in awe of the life he lived and the work he did. I know that everyone who knew him wanted to be like him in one way or the other. Despite of all the amazing and good work he did, he was very humble and was never one to boast or impose his opinions on anyone. His end was sudden and a shock to all of us but it was the will of Allah and all we can do is to accept the fate that Allah has ordained for us all. Its still hard to believe that we will not see him again at the family gatherings and hear his interesting stories. I want to send my heartfelt condolenses to all of Uncle Moppey’s brothers, sisters, cousins, nephews, nieces, friends and colleagues. I pray that Allah gives them patience to bear this great loss. Kenya has lost a great son and the world has lost its best citizen. I like the idea that people have suggested in this blog about starting a conservation fund in his name and I am sure that he would be very happy with it.
Atif Darr (Nairobi)
Innalahi wa innalelahi rajihuun.
We have no words to describe the loss of a true hero.
To a man who hurt no one, disappointed no one and ALWAYS had time to listen and lend a helping hand to whoever came his way, human or animal.
He will always be remembered in our memories and kept close to our hearts.
May Allah grant him jannah and rest his soul in peace.
Ameen.
Like everyone else I just cannot believe Zorro has gone. I can only reiterate everyones sentiments. I was first introduced to Zorro about 18 yrs ago by my dear fried Nazleen who also broke the trajic news to me. I would fly regularly to Mombasa with my job as cabin crew with Monarch Airlines and Zorro was the first person I would call, he was a very special friend to me and I feel prividged and honoured to have known him and to have been a small part in his big life. Flying back to Mombasa will never be the same.
Zorro you will always have a special place in my heart. Sleep tight my dear friend . God Bless
My deepest sympathy and condelences to all his dear family and friends all over the world.
Love Lydia xxx
It was a big shock when I recieved the news from Kenya on the 02/09/08. And it still hurts when I think of him. We have lost a great man who was full of compassion, not only for his fellow human being but also for the animals he loved to work with. I first met Zahoor(Mamu… as I will fondly remember him by) during my teenage years, that’s over twenty years ago. I will never forget his laughter and that booming voice that grabbed your attention. His wise words and stories about his work. Memories are what I am left with, and wonderful memories they are… May Allah rest his eternal soul in peace.. Amin.
Death is nothing at all,
I have only slipped away into the next room.
I am I and you are you.
Whatever we were to each other,
that we still are.
Call me by my familiar name,
speak to me in the easy way which you always used,
put no difference into your tone,
wear no forced air solemnity or sorrow.
Laugh as we always laughed,
at the little jokes we always enjoyed together,
play, smile, think of me, pray for me,
let my name be ever the household word that it always was.
Let it be spoken without effect,
without the ghost of a shadow on it.
Life means all that it ever meant,
it is the same as it ever was,
there is absolutely unbroken continuity.
What is death but a negligible accident?
Why should I be out of mind,
because I am out of sight?
I am but waiting for you at an interval,
somewhere very near,
just round the corner.
All is well
My heart felt condolences to all the family.
Suzie V. Naylor
Innalillahi Wa innalillahi rajiun.
We are out of word with the tragedy that has our family. What a great guy!!! More than uncle he was like best friend to all his nieces and nephews, we all loved spending time with him on his farm and listen to all his lifes expriences.
Unlce i will never forget the month I stayed with you before the East African Calssic, the great barbeques and korogas we had, the long storys, all the documentrys we watched together at your place.
The endless support you gave my when we came to the Coast for a rally. You were there at the end of every stage to see how we were going, and the the after partys!!
I’ll really miss you my uncle and good friend.
God bless you, and may Allah rest your soul in eternal peace. Amen.
I was shocked and deeply saddened to hear about Dr Kashmiri’s death. He brought so much happiness and laughter to peoples’ lives and, as these posts show, he will be missed in a way that is difficult to describe. I have so many fond and funny memories of Dr Kashmiri from childhood. He allowed my sisters and I to watch a cat having a hysterectomy (which was the highlight of our holidays!), he showed us the baby crocodiles that he had found and he looked after my Mum, my sisters and myself after the death of my Father. He was a kind and loving man and I shall miss him. Condolences to his family and friends in this time of sorrow and need. Kavita
To all the family of Dr. Kashmiri, my sincere condolences. May Allah rest his soul in eternal peace. Ameen. May Allah also grant the family the strength and patience to deal with this tragic death.
The most loving person in this world has gone. We all loved him so much but ALLAH SWT Loved u the most. We will dearly miss u. Fazi
I cannot describe how I felt when the sad news was conveyed to me. He was a friend from school days and everytime we got together we talked of the good old days and the old friends and his humour was something else.
Last Ramadhan he invited me to his “shamba” one sunday to show me all the photos he had and wanted me to help him catalogue them for a book he wanted me to do with him.
I went there again the following Sunday and the next saturday he came to my house open break his fast and to look at more photographs including the photographs of his trip to Ethiopia.
He talked about the Elephants in Ethiopia and his experience as one would talk about friends.
We never got togther to work on his dream of doing the book as we were both travelling a fair bit but a few days before he left for Ethiopia he came to see him and said he will have a lot of spare time while he is there and intends to start talking into dictaphone about his various wild life experiences. On the day he was leaving he informed me that the dictaphone was not working but he will see if he can find one at the Duty Free shop in Nairobi. Sadly we will never know if he found one.
i have learnt of the death of Dr Kashimir with profound shock and sadness. i worked with him for many years in the Maasai Mara rescuing snared animals including elephants, cheetah, lion and Rhino among others while working for Anne Kent Taylor Fund. he was such a decent and dedicated man and we all admired his bravery and dedication to work. My Deepest sympathies goes to his family and friends.
Heartfelt condolences to the family. Zahoor, R.I.P. Ameen
Rest in peace Uncle-a tragic loss. I know Mum will be there beyond the gates of paradise to welcome you-Ameen! Deepest condolences from Saima, Sahir and Muneer
I am so very sorry to hear that Kashmiri passed on.. but I can say he was doing what he loved most to do in the whole world. I knew of Kashmiri for many many years, and finally had the opportunity to meet him in Kenya, in the Mara at Alex Walker’s Serian Camp. We’d found a snared and wounded young lion and called Kashmiri in, it was a wonder to watch him work– so calm, collected, knowledgable and able. While treating the lion we’d heard of a giraffe that had been poison arrowed by poachers.. we tracked that giraffe for over 4 hours, we did all we could but the giraffe died. Kashimiri was troubled by the death, as sometimes these things happen despite all our efforts. But his gentle manner and thoughtful dialogue and quiet sense of humor and place in the world helped all of us move through the sadness of the moment. It was a pleasure and an honor to be in his presence both at work and at play and in quiet. He will be sorely missed by all.
our great mamoo mopee was the most beautiful man in the world.yes no one can ever bring him back, but everyone can keep making duah and praying for him, aswell as remebering him by keeping him in out hearts…xxxxx
reading all this messages for this great man fills my eyes with tears.
his death is a big blow to man and animals alike. i for one have learnt a big lesson from all of this. when i die i want to be remembered fondly like zorro. the size of your house or the model of your car or the weight of your pocket is not what it is all about, it is about how many people love you and respect you.That is all that matters.
all of us should try and become a little like him, although i know it will be very difficult to fit in those huge huge shoes.
please friends let us not be hateful and greedy, let us all be generous and kind and humble so that we are remembered fondly.
i am sure that this great man is in paradise.
rest in peace zorro.
love you forever.
the african wildlife have lost their best friend. a best friend that can never ever be replaced. rest in peace mamoo mopee, inshallah allah will grant you a place in jannah…ameen>>>which you deserve inshallah…missing you and love you forever…xxxxxxxxx
We have grown up knowing this charismatic man in our home town of Mombasa.A true simba of our time who will be grately missed for all his endevours on the work and social circuits.Mombasa will not be the same without its stalwart son Zorro . May Allah grant him a place in Heaven and our heart felt condolences to his family.
it came as a great shock that we have lost a great man and a hero to the less fortunate.he is a role model to me and many many others
i remember before he left to go to ethopia he asked me if i would keep a pair of his shoes that he didnt want to spoil in ethopia….. uncle mopps i will keep them clean for a very long time.. as they will always be a reminder of the great man you were.. our real live mordern day zorro.. out to help and save everyone and anything
miss you uncle moppy
may allah rest your soul in eternal peace…
Paa Muppy as I used to call him, the pain and sorrow are beyond words. Today we have lost the greatest kashmiri on the planet, the Butt family will miss you dearly, our heart felt condolonces to the entire family and friends. Rest in peace King of Mombasa, Mombasa will never be the same without you. We’ll love you always.
We mourn the passing of our dear uncle mopi. It is still unbelievable that he is gone. He was our strength, and the world is a poorer place without him.
He will be missed greatly by many many people. A true hero.
We pray that your soul rests in eternal peace. Ameen.
We are so sorry to hear this bad news.We are very sad.
We always remember the good time at his ranch and the good time in safari in Tsavo.
Always happy to show, to explain the wildlife.
Kashmiri was a real great Man.
Our condolences to his family and friends.
Rest in peace.
I AM SO DEEPLY SADDNEST AND SHOCKED BECAUSE WE LOST A FAMOUS MAN.
WE MEET HIM 7 YEARS AGO AND ALWAYS WHEN WE SPEND HOLIDAYS IN KENYA SOMETIME 3 TIME FOR YEAR WE SPEND SO MANY TIME WITH HIM.
I REMENBER LAST FEW MONTHS AGO HE HELPED ME TO ORGANIZE A DISTRIBUTION IN MONBASSA OF MATERIEL FOR THE PEOPLE NEAR THE RANCH OF KASHMIRI.
MONBASSA WILL NEVER BE THE SAME WITHOUT YOU.
MY SINCERE CONDOLENCES TO ALL HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS.
KASHMIRI ALWAYS WILL STAY IN OUR HEART.
ISABEL FRANCE
Wot can i say about Doc thats how i called him, he was my boss and my friend. I have worked with him for many years and have known him very well. Doc had it not been for you, i wouldn’t have been where i am, you helped me polish my skills and made me strong, you were always there when i needed you in both happy and sad times. To me you were a hero with a solution to all problems, people depended on you. Like all the above i shall never forget the precious times spent with you and you will always remain alive in my mind. Its devastating that you’re no more with us but we have no say when it comes to Allah’s will, from Him we have come and to Him we shall return. With tears in my eyes, DOC, I’LL MISS YOU.
Kash, we will all miss you very much, especially Jayshree (zara), Ba, and all the Patel family. We are saddened by your loss to the whole community however you will never be forgotten. I remember you asking me to go with you on your trip to Ethopia. As you know, I love wildlife and you told me I would have had a trip of a life time. I wish I had gone with you. I had the best time in Kenya with you and all your family. You were more than just a brother-in-law and a great friend
From all the tributes paid to the late Zahoor,popularly known to his friends as Zorro is a clear testimony of his greatness as a human being.I never met him but from what I have learnt about him from some of his relatives and friends will always remind me about this magnificent person.My family and I join in prayers all those who loved him and who will miss him physically during our sojourn in this world.
A Golden heart stopped beating
hard working hands at rest.
God broke our hearts to prove us
he only takes the best.
If we could bring you back again,
For one more hour or day,
We’d express all our unspoken love;
We’d have countless things to say.
If we could bring you back again,
We’d say we treasured you,
And that your presence in our lives
Meant more than we ever knew.
If we could bring you back again,
To tell you what we should,
You’d know how much we miss you now,
And if we could, we would.
May You Rest in Peace Bhaijan Mopi,
our prayers will always be with you.
Laysa Bandel-Switzerland on 06 Sep 2008 at 9:12 am 9
It was a big shock for me when I heard about his death and its a real tragedy. I can’t belief you are not with us anymore and You will stay always in my heart. My deepest sympathy and cordial condolence accompany my lines and goes to your family. May god rest his soul in peace…Ameen
Dearest Dr Kashmiri…you have held a very special place in our hearts. It was you who inspired my son, Shyam to want to discover animals and become a vet. You have always showered your love on my children and opened your home and Thorn Tree Ranch during our time in Mombasa-thank you very much, you will be remembered always.
May Allah guide you in your journey to peace….Ameen.
Shital, Beena, Sohini and Shyam Khakhria
This is shocking news to me, I just met him in April. He was myschool mat, and my co,driver rallies. He was my brother, we were always together. I connot believe that Zorro has left us.My heartfelt condolences to the family. I connot get him off my mind. Yaseenkhan Mashuli
This is shocking news to me,i just met him in april. he was my school mat and my co,driver in rally he was my brother we were always together, I cannot get him off my mind. Icannot believe he left us. my condences to his family. I will miss him. may god rest his soul in peace, Amen. Yaseenkhan
MASHULI
Dearest Paula, Anne KT, Family of Dr. Kashmir and all animal lovers and protectors,
We are never prepared for the people we love to suddenly not be on
on the other side of the door or on the other end of the phone. However, I know that having Kashmiri in the company of my beloved friends and animals that have passed makes me sigh a bit easier. His hearty laugh, his passion against odds and his genuine love of all creatures will be missed but I feel my life was enhanced by having met him. If I close my eyes and listen extra hard I can hear the animals singing his name.
Rest in Peace,
Devon
Very sad news!
I knew Zahoor from some 38 years back at Allidina Visram High School in Mombasa. We later became pals in our hockey days. Zahoor (commonly known as Zorro) was a great hockey player with tremendous courage. We always admired the way he blocked the hockey ball by using his head. A great goalkeeper!
As an ex-official of Coast Hockey Association and an ex-member of Kenya Hockey Union, I always found Zahoor to be friendly and always prepared to help.
I met him some five years ago on the plane. He was his usual jolly fellow with something witty to crack.
May Allah rest his sould in peace.
There is so much I could say about you Uncle Moppi but I wish I could tell you in person how special you were to us while we were growing up. All the memories I have of you are filled with laughter and love. You died doing what you loved best and that is the only consoliation I have. You will be really missed by all of us but your stories and those of the animals you saved and the lives you touched will remain with us forever.
May Allah give us all strength to deal with this loss and may he lead you to peace. I will miss you xx
Uncle Mopi: It’s hard to put into words what you meant to us ‘One in a million’ the foundation & pillar of the Kashmiri family, a man there for everyone in every instance. You will be greatly missed but rest assured we as your family will do our best to keep your loving memory alive and learn from the great knowledge and legacy of a truly unique being you were.. I am sure you are there in heaven looking down on us with you famous cheeky smile enjoying all the heaven has to offer.
“If tears could build a stairway and memories a lane i’d walk right up to heaven and bring you home again”
Gott schläft im Stein
atmet in der Pflanze
träumt im Tier
und erwacht im Menschen.
Das alles war Dr. Kashmiri für uns, wir trauern um Ihn und werden Ihn nie vergessen. Unser herzliches Beileid auch besonders seiner Familie und all seinen Freunden
It is really sad to hear the untimely death of Dr. Zahoor Kashmiri, our beloved nephew cousin and uncle. May Allah grant him a place in Jannah.
Rest in peace Daktari.
Now you can watch from above how nature and human beings continue to live next to each other and with each other. Let`s hope it will correlate with your dreams some day.
We will miss the evenings sitting in your backyard – hear the stories and see all the pictures about your help to the animals.
Our condolences go to your family.
Dear Kashmiri, I know you since 12 years. ‘You will be always there, it was to early, but at was like <ou ever told my.
Reat in Peace, we will meet again.
My condolences to your family
Heike Hodl
We knew you for 17 years, and when I first met Kashmiri, our flirts were cute until told him that, he reminds me of my Dad (smile). Hans & I worked as cabin crew W/ASA, and we had some good times (even @work). It was funny the way he would tease my husband about those earlier days. I remember it all, right up to our last skype 8/14… our last flight 3/23… before we closed the aircraft door he mentioned ” c you guys, you won’t get rid of me so easily” It is difficult to continue, I can’t breathe & I can’t see. As I wrote in Facebook WE WILL MISS YOU! Hans & Lyn
C’est avec beaucoup de tristesse mais aussi de regrets que je me joins a ceux qui ont pu apprecier les qualites d’un homme tout aussi passionne que genereux dans son travail comme dans la vie, un homme ayant contribue a redonner un sens a l’humanite en aidant les animaux… Que sa memoire serve d’exemple.
Daktar!!,
You will be greatly missed,especially the jokes we used to crack when in cbo!!
memories will linger and you’ll forever be in our hearts.
RIP .my dear friend..
sadly missed but not forgotten we feel the pain of all your sisters having gone through similar times.very proud to be related to you.may allah grant you a place in jannah and have mercy on your soul in this blessed month.
It is sad to hear about the death of Dr. Kashmiri. May the almighty rest his soul in peace. He will be remembered for a long time for his great work in all of Kenya especially with out beautiful Wildlife
my deepest condolences to Zahoor s Family and friends.
a big loss to wildlife . I will never forget you. The sky must be crying. Rest in Peace Zahoor
Elke Riesterer
I have not had the pleasure to get to know Dr. Kashmiri personally
but I learned so much about this wonderful men and his outstanding contribution to assist in the well being of animals by reading the long list of comments. He is undoubtedly another tragic and great loss as we just recently lost another great men Prof. Hezy Shoshani who was killed in a bomb blast in Addis Ababa. Hezy was studying the same elephant group Dr. Kashmiri was involved darting.
What an immense vacuum left for people and animals alike and I grief with you in solidarity.
Blessings, and may he Rest in Peace
INNAA LILLAAHI WA INNAA ILAYHI RAAJI’OON Kashmiri was a good friend & a brother. This is a shocking news to me, i just met him in June at my mum’s khatham,not nowing it would be the last time i see him.Mamu i still remember the good times we had in Mombasa, you’l be dearly missed .May ALLAH Rest your soul in peace AMEN.Our heartfelt Condolences to the family.
You will be sadly missed but not forgotten, our deepest condolonces to your family. Zahoor was a great man may Allah bless his soul, Amen.
Lost a remarkable man in the job that he loved doing. our deepest condolonces go to the family. may allah give him a place in jannah
inshallah. he wll be sadly missed by every one around the world that knew him. our dua’s always will be with him, Ameen
I have known Zahoor since I started working with Aboo & Co and that is 20 years. He has been a client and a very good friend. He is always in a jovial mood and brings a smile on your face. He was full of life. I was sad to hear the news and I will miss seeing him in the office.
The last time I saw him was when he came to sign some document and will never forget what he said. “Khalida let me sign this, you never know I might not come back from Ethiopia” and I told him don’t talk like that inshallah you will and we sat down and talked about his first job as a Vet and how he travelled to the rural areas in a train with just a small bag. These are the moments I will treasure. I pray to Allah to keep his soul in eternal peace. Amin
My profound condolences to Fakhrudin, Arfa, Shamash, Taheer and the entire Kashmiri family. I pray to Allah to give you strength to endure the loss of your beloved brother.
INNA NILAAHI WA INNA ILAHI RAAJ’AOON
Zorro,your contribution to your work,and generosity to your friends,
and the people around you will never be forgotten. We cannot the good times we have had together which will remain in our hearts and mind while you enjoy the FRUITS OF JANAA.
Our deepfelt condolences to Bhaijan Shamo,Fako and the rest of the family. May ALLAH giveyour all ‘HEMAAT’ to surpass this tragedy.
I was really shocked to hear of the passing of Dr. Zahoor Kashmiri. He was a very close friend of our family and we are truly saddened by his untimely and tragic death. My thoughts are with his family at this very sad time.
Dear Kashmiri, I can not believe that you are gone. I will never forget the time we had together. Missing you very much. My thoughts are with your family. Wo auch immer Du bist – ich weiß es geht Dir gut.
Elke Withalm
C’est avec une immense tristesse que j’apprends cette terrible nouvelle
Kashmiri tu nous as quitté.
Tu étais et tu seras toujours un être exceptionnel aux yeux et dans le cœur des personnes que tu as croisé. Nous avons passé des moments inoubliables à tes cotés gravés a jamais dans nos mémoires.
Reposes en paix
Beaucoup de courages et sincères condoléances à sa famille et ses amis
Patrick, Olinda, Noa
Great loss ,zoro was a very humble and gentle ,he was very close to me, when ever i visited msa ,he was there and we enjoyed over selves ,he is in my thoughts all the time.I will miss him very much ,msa wont be the same any more ,i pray to ALLAH to lead him to paradise and forgive his sins amen .
Zoro ,my cousin i will always miss you ,and you will always be in my prayers .
sajad butt and hasina .
Dear Kashmiri,
we are still shocked and deeply sad, that you’re not with us anymore. We will never forget you and the wonderful evenings we used to spent at your shamba.
It’s sad we will not meet again in this life, but we will always keep you in mind and in our hearts!
Very sad to hear the tragic death of Mr Zahoor Kashmiri. We pray for him to go to heaven. Best of luck to his family. R.I.P
I´m still shocked and think often of every hour we spend together….. I never will forget Dr. Zahoor Kashmiri and still miss him….
condolences to his family
a friend from germany
so sorry, what a gr8 loss
from Khlil (MANGAL)
I and my Sister we met Dr. Kaschmiri in Kenya. He was a realy good Human we are very sad to hear the tragic death of Mr Zahoor Kashmiri may Allah bless his soul. Our condolences go to your family. We are miss you Dr. Kaschmiri you will allways in our prays.
I feel deeply about what happen to Dr. Kaschmiri. I am 13 and my dream is to become a Wildlife Vet and save the Honey Badgers. All my life I have cared for the creatures that you would rarely find kept in a house. I have grown up with normal house pets but felt something was missing, when I was about 6 I found a common Tree Frog in my garden. For many months I would catch flies, beetles and crickets and care for the little guy… I would never let him be kept in any kind of enclosure, he was a thing of beauty and a part of nature. He lived in our garden for 3 years untill finally he took a turn for the worst… A car had taken his life. One day I would love to have my own Zoo and care for the Honey Badger’s to get them back into the wild without threat.
Your’s sincerely Paige xoxo
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[...] Kenyan wildlife vet killed by an elephant in Ethiopia By baraza It is with great sadness that I report the death of another great conservationist at work. Zahoor Kashmiri was darting elephants in Babille in Ethiopia where a little understood population of elephants was being studied. … Baraza – http://baraza.wildlifedirect.org [...]
[...] « Kenyan wildlife vet killed by an elephant in Ethiopia [...]
[...] grieving, and receiving outpourings of grief over his tragic death which we wrote about here and here. We have received hundreds of messages, through the blogs, on phone, in texts and through other [...]