Farewell to a Forest Matriarch: Vatsala, Asia’s Oldest Elephant, Passes at 100

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India bids farewell to Vatsala, the tuskless century-old elephant who was Asia's oldest, who died on July 8 at Panna Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh. Her death ends a century of history of elegance, longevity, and humble leadership in the wild.

Life and Legacy

It seems that Vatsala was born in the Nilambur forests of Kerala during the 1920s. She was translocated to Madhya Pradesh in 1971 for timber transportation and subsequently translocated to the Panna in 1993.

She retired from active duty in 2003, although she remained popular at the Hinauta Elephant Camp, often serving as grandmother to the younger elephants.

Vatsala was not married, but she was well known for her motherly behavior, especially when elephants give birth, and hence affectionately referred to as Dadi Maa.

Last Days and Health

In her advanced age, Vatsala suffered from cataracts, gastrointestinal ailments, and debilitating nail injuries that limited her movements.

Even with around-the-clock attention, a special porridge regimen, and daily bathing ceremonies, she fell by the Khairaiyaan drain and died quietly.

She was cremated in the camp where she had stayed for so many years.

Tributes and Reflections

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has described her as the quiet guardian of the forest and symbol of the emotional heritage of the state.

Conservationists and handlers referred to her as gentle, intelligent, and highly maternal, with a calming influence on her herd.

Sources: India Today, Hindustan Times, The Straits Times, Indian Express, The Independent