Vatsala, believed to be Asia’s oldest female elephant and a cherished figure in India’s wildlife conservation history, passed away on Tuesday at the Panna Tiger Reserve (PTR) in Madhya Pradesh.
She was over 100 years old.
A senior forest official confirmed that Vatsala had been suffering from multiple organ failure and was under continuous veterinary care before she peacefully breathed her last.
Affectionately known as “Dadi Maa” and “Nani Maa” by forest rangers and wildlife enthusiasts, Vatsala was more than just a member of the elephant herd. She was a beloved matriarch and an enduring symbol of care, legacy, and dedication within PTR.
“She was more than just an elephant. She was an institution within the Panna Tiger Reserve,” said a forest official.
Vatsala’s life spanned a remarkable journey - from the Nilambur forests of Kerala, where she was born, to becoming a gentle guardian in the heart of Madhya Pradesh. Initially involved in timber operations, she was brought to Hoshangabad in 1971 and later relocated to PTR in 1993.
During her active years, Vatsala played a vital role in tracking tigers, contributing significantly to conservation efforts. Although officially retired in 2003, her service to wildlife never ceased. She spent her later years caring for younger elephants, often acting as a midwife and nurturing figure in the herd.
She lived her final days at the Hinauta camp, where forest staff provided her with round-the-clock attention. P
TR Field Director Anjana Suchita Tirkey, Deputy Director Mohit Sood, and wildlife veterinarian Sanjeev Gupta were present when she passed. Her funeral was held with full respect at the camp.
Tourists from around the world visited PTR just to see her, charmed by her calm demeanor and profound bond with her caretakers. Many have shared fond memories and photographs of Vatsala on social media, celebrating her gentle presence and long life.
Vatsala’s death has left a deep void in India’s wildlife conservation landscape. Her story was a powerful reminder of animal intelligence, emotional depth, and the unique relationships forged between humans and wildlife.
BJP MP Brijendra Pratap Singh from Panna offered his condolences, writing on X: “The demise of the world's oldest elephant 'Vatsala', who had travelled a glorious journey of wildlife nearly for more than 100 years, is an emotional moment for the people of Panna.”