10 Jul, 2025

A Century of Grace: Vatsala, Asia’s Oldest Elephant, Bids Farewell to Panna Tiger Reserve

The venerable Vatsala, believed to be Asia's oldest elephant, has passed away at over 100 years of age, leaving a profound void in the Panna Tiger Reserve (PTR), Madhya Pradesh. Known affectionately as 'Dadi Maa' and 'Dai Maa', Vatsala's journey from a working elephant in Kerala's forests to a beloved matriarch in Panna is a testament to her enduring spirit and significant contributions to wildlife conservation in India. Her passing marks the end of an era for the reserve and a somber moment for elephant conservation efforts globally. This blog delves into the life and legacy of this iconic pachyderm, celebrating her century of grace and impact.

The Life and Legacy of Vatsala

A Grand Centennial:

• Vatsala was over 100 years old at the time of her demise, a remarkable age for an elephant.
• She passed away on Tuesday, July 8, 2025.

Her Home at Panna Tiger Reserve:

• Vatsala breathed her last in the Hinouta range of Panna Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh.
• She had become an inseparable part of the reserve's identity and its tiger reintroduction program.

From Kerala to Madhya Pradesh:

• Born in circa 1917 in the Nilambur forests of Kerala, Vatsala started her life in the timber trade.
• In 1971, she was brought to Hoshangabad in Madhya Pradesh.
• She was later transferred to the Panna Tiger Reserve in 1993, where she spent the majority of her long life.

A Pillar of Conservation:

• For a decade (until her retirement in 2003), Vatsala played a crucial role in tracking tigers for the reserve's conservation efforts.
• Even after retirement, she continued to nurture younger elephants, acting as a grandmother figure to calves and a leader within the elephant herd.

A Beloved Icon:

• Known for her gentle nature and iconic presence, Vatsala was a major tourist attraction at the Panna Tiger Reserve.
• She shared an emotional bond with her caretakers and was widely cherished by forest staff and wildlife lovers.

Final Days and Enduring Care:

• In her later years, Vatsala faced challenges such as a broken toenail and lost eyesight, which made long-distance walking difficult.
• Despite these ailments, she received exceptional care at the Hinauta Elephant Camp, including daily baths and a specialized diet of porridge.
• Wildlife veterinarians consistently monitored her health, contributing significantly to her remarkable longevity.
• She ultimately succumbed to illness and multiple organ failure, attributed to her advanced age.

A Respected Farewell

• Vatsala's last rites were conducted with solemn respect at the Hinauta camp, attended by senior PTR officials, including Field Director Anjana Suchita Tirkey and Deputy Director Mohit Sood.
• Chief Minister Mohan Yadav paid tribute to Vatsala on X, honoring her as the "silent guardian of our forests" and a "symbol of Madhya Pradesh's emotions."

A Legacy Etched in the Wild

The passing of Vatsala, Asia's oldest elephant, is more than just the loss of an animal; it's the farewell to a living legend who embodied the spirit of Panna Tiger Reserve for decades. Her century-long journey, marked by tireless dedication to conservation and her gentle demeanor, leaves an indelible mark on the hearts of all who knew her. Vatsala's life serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of elephant protection and the profound connection between humans and wildlife. Her legacy will continue to inspire wildlife enthusiasts and drive future conservation initiatives in India. As tourism, education, and ecological balance intertwined through her presence, her legacy will endure in the hearts of those she inspired. Rest in peace, Asia’s “Guardian of the Jungle”.