Global Tiger Day, also known as International Tiger Day, is a significant occasion observed on July 29th each year to raise awareness about tiger conservation. Tigers, being a majestic and endangered species, require special attention and efforts to ensure their survival in the wild. On this year’s Global Tiger Day, let’s take a closer look at some of India’s most famous tigers and tigresses, each with their own unique stories and contributions to the tiger population.
- Machli (Ranthambore National Park): Known as the “Tigress Queen of Ranthambore,” Machli earned her name due to a mark on her left cheek that resembled a fish’s contours. She was a prolific cub-bearer, giving birth to 11 cubs between 1999 and 2006, which significantly contributed to raising the tiger population in Ranthambore from 15 in 2004 to 50 in 2014.
Machli’s lineage has left a lasting impact, as many of the Ranthambore tigers today can be traced back to her. Her contributions were so immense that the Indian government honored her with a commemorative postal cover and stamp in 2013. Machli lived an impressive 19 years, making her the longest-living tigress in the wild. - Collarwali (Pench National Park): Collarwali is renowned as the only tigress in the wild to have given birth to an astounding 29 cubs across 8 litters. She earned her name because she was the first tigress in Pench to be fitted with a radio collar. Many affectionately called her “Mataram,” meaning beloved mother, due to her nurturing and maternal nature.
- Bamera (Bandhavgarh National Park): Bamera, the largest tiger in the territory at Bandhavgarh National Park, overthrew his ailing father (B2) and became the dominant male. Despite being fierce in protecting his fiefdom, Bamera was often described as “shaant and shareef” by those who knew him well.
- Maya (Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve): Maya rules over Tadoba National Park, the oldest national park in Maharashtra, with authority.
Her skirmishes with other tigresses are well-known stories told by safari guides and forest authorities. These conflicts highlight the reality that tiger habitat is shrinking, and the big cats must fight for survival. - Paro (Corbett Tiger Reserve): Paro, also known as Paarwali, established her rule over both sides of the Ramganga river after chasing away two tiger matriarchs.
The river serves as a stunning backdrop to some of the most spectacular photographs of Paro. - Kankati (Bandhavgarh National Park): Known as Vijaya, Kankati dominated the Chorbehra and Chakradhara region up to the Bandhavgarh Fort. Her epic battle for dominance with Lakshmi, a disabled tigress, left her with one eye, but it didn’t diminish her ferocity or popularity.
- Vijay (Delhi Zoo): Vijay, a majestic six-foot white tiger, gained notoriety when he mauled a trespasser in his enclosure.
He sired 5 cubs with his partner Kalpana under the successful breeding program at Delhi Zoo. Though Vijay is no longer with us, he is still fondly remembered as Delhi Zoo’s star breeder. - Munna (Kanha National Park): Often referred to as the “King of Kanha,” Munna is famous for the distinctive stripes on his forehead. Despite his age, people still talk about his territorial fights, which can fill many a summer night. His legacy continues through his son, Chota Munna.
- Waghdoh (Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve): Named after a waterhole in the Mohurli region of Tadoba, Waghdoh took over the territory after defeating Yeda Anna (Broken Tail). He sired four cubs with Yeda Anna’s partner, Madhuri. Waghdoh’s story took a tragic turn when he was found dead in May 2022, soon after allegedly killing a shepherd.
- Prince (Bandipur National Park): Prince, the most photographed and dominant tiger in Bandipur Tiger Reserve, reigned over an area of 10-12 sq kms for nearly seven years. His roar and presence made him a symbol of majesty in Karnataka’s Bandipur National Park. In 2017, Prince’s carcass was found in the park’s Kundakere Range when he was 14 years old.
On this Global Tiger Day, let us celebrate and honor these magnificent tigers and tigresses, and remember the crucial role they play in maintaining ecological balance and preserving the diversity of our planet. It is essential for all of us to join hands in tiger conservation efforts to ensure that future generations can also witness these awe-inspiring creatures in the wild.
