Vatsala, Asia’s oldest female elephant, aged over 100 years, has passed away at the Panna Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh, India. Fondly called Dadi Maa and Nani Maa, she was a beloved figure known for her long and eventful life. Originally from Kerala, Vatsala made Madhya Pradesh her home where she became an iconic presence.
In her later years, Vatsala suffered from injuries to the nails on her front legs, which greatly affected her ability to stand. Despite the dedicated care provided by the reserve’s staff, she died on Tuesday. The Panna Tiger Reserve management expressed deep grief and conducted a respectful funeral ceremony to honor her majestic legacy.
Vatsala was deeply cherished by both locals and wildlife enthusiasts, and she was widely believed to be the oldest living female elephant in Asia. Her passing is considered a significant loss for the region’s wildlife community. Her life served as a powerful symbol of the importance of wildlife conservation and highlighted the special bond between humans and elephants in India.
Tributes and Legacy
Officials and staff at the reserve paid heartfelt tribute to Vatsala’s life, remembering her invaluable contributions to:
- Wildlife tourism in Madhya Pradesh
- Wildlife education and awareness
- Conservation efforts for endangered species
Her passing marks the end of an era at the Panna Tiger Reserve, prompting reflection on the ongoing need for care, protection, and conservation of endangered animals in the region.
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