BHOPAL: Vatsala, believed to be Asia’s oldest female elephant and a beloved symbol of the Panna Tiger Reserve, passed away on Tuesday in the Hinouta range of the park. Estimated to be over 100 years old, her death marks the end of an era for the reserve and the many who admired her.
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav paid tribute to the centenarian elephant in a heartfelt post on X (formerly Twitter). “The century-long companionship of ‘Vatsala’ came to a pause today,” he wrote. “She was not just an elephant — she was a silent sentinel of our forests, a nurturing presence, and a living symbol of Madhya Pradesh’s emotional bond with its wildlife.”
Vatsala, originally brought from Kerala to Narmadapuram, was later moved to Panna Tiger Reserve, where she spent decades as a leader among camp elephants. Known for her calm demeanor and maternal instincts, she took on the role of caregiver to elephant calves, acting as a protective grandmother to the younger herd members.
Her eyes, filled with a century’s worth of memories, greeted countless tourists, wildlife officials, and forest staff who visited or worked at the reserve. Over the years, she became a central figure in the lives of many — a majestic presence representing strength, resilience, and deep-rooted connection to nature.
A Life Honoured and Remembered
Vatsala was cremated with great respect and care by the reserve’s officials and staff, who considered her more than just a member of the wildlife population — she was family. Her passing was met with a deep sense of loss, both among conservationists and visitors who had come to know her story.
According to the field director of Panna Tiger Reserve, Vatsala had been confined to resting near Khairaiya Nala in the Hinouta range after developing a painful broken toenail on her front leg. Due to her age-related frailty, she had also lost her eyesight and could no longer walk long distances. Despite the dedicated efforts of forest staff to assist her and regular care by wildlife veterinarians, Vatsala breathed her last around noon.
In recent years, Vatsala had been retired from active patrolling duties. Instead, she was housed at the Hinouta elephant camp, where she was lovingly cared for. Her daily routine included a walk to Khairaiya Nala for bathing, and she was fed a carefully monitored diet of porridge to suit her age and condition. Her longevity was attributed in part to the constant monitoring and attentive care provided by veterinarians and mahouts at the reserve.
A Legacy That Lives On
Vatsala wasn’t just a figure of admiration for her age. She played a significant role in the Panna Tiger Reserve’s famed tiger reintroduction program, acting as a calm and reliable companion during various conservation efforts. Her experience, instincts, and leadership within the elephant camp made her an invaluable asset to the team working to restore Panna’s tiger population.
As the matriarch of the elephant herd, she inspired awe not only among fellow animals but also among those who had the privilege to observe or work alongside her. Her presence offered comfort to young calves and guidance to her human caretakers.
Her story stands as a reminder of the deep emotional intelligence and endurance that elephants are known for — and of the delicate, respectful bond that can exist between humans and wildlife.
While Vatsala is no longer physically present in the forests she once roamed, her spirit and legacy will continue to resonate through the rustling trees, the silent trails, and the hearts of those who strive to protect India’s natural heritage.
Farewell, Vatsala — guardian of the wild, friend to many, and a true legend of the jungle.
