Bharmour (Chamba): In a heart-wrenching tale of loyalty and loss, one of the two youths who went missing in the dense jungles of Bharmour five days ago has been found dead, while the search for the second youth continues amid harsh weather conditions.
What has moved the entire region is the unwavering faithfulness of a pet dog that accompanied the two youths.
After the body of one youth, identified as Payush, was traced deep inside the snowbound area near a mountain pass, the dog stayed back — alone, without food or shelter — guarding the body of its master for nearly four days.
Despite freezing temperatures, deep snow and complete isolation, the dog refused to leave the spot.
Villagers and rescue personnel said the animal appeared to be keeping vigil, as if waiting for its master to return.
The emotional sight has gone viral on social media, drawing widespread reactions from across Himachal Pradesh and beyond.
An intensive search operation was launched involving the Indian Army and local authorities, but continuous snowfall and inclement weather forced repeated halts in the rescue effort.
Even after five days, the body of the second missing youth is yet to be traced and is believed to be buried under deep snow in the high-altitude terrain.
Officials said rescue teams remain on alert and operations will resume as soon as weather conditions permit.
Meanwhile, the story of the dog and its master has left even seasoned rescuers shaken — a stark reminder of silent loyalty that speaks louder than words.
As Bharmour mourns, the image of a lone dog guarding its master in the snow has become a symbol of devotion, grief and the unforgiving nature of the mountains.
