Vatsala, Asia’s Oldest Elephant, Passes Away At Panna Tiger Reserve After Living Over 100 Years

In heartbreaking news, Asia’s oldest and most beloved female elephant at Panna Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh, has passed away. She was over 100 years old and had been ill for the past few days. She breathed her last on Tuesday. 

Asia’s Oldest Elephant, Vatsala, Passes Away

‘वत्सला’ का सौ वर्षों का साथ आज विराम पर पहुंचा। पन्ना टाइगर रिज़र्व में आज दोपहर ‘वत्सला’ ने अंतिम सांस ली।

वह मात्र हथिनी नहीं थी, हमारे जंगलों की मूक संरक्षक, पीढ़ियों की सखी और मप्र की संवेदनाओं की प्रतीक थीं।

टाइगर रिज़र्व की यह प्रिय सदस्य अपनी आंखों में अनुभवों का सागर… pic.twitter.com/u8a6ZBAKEj

— Dr Mohan Yadav (@DrMohanYadav51) July 8, 2025

Vatsala, Asia’s oldest female elephant and a beloved member of Panna Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh, has passed away. She was over 100 years old and suffered from multiple organ failure. Under observation by veterinarians for the past few days, she took her last breath on Tuesday, as per a report in NDTV. Mohan Yadav, Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, took to his X account to share the sad news. He said, “Vatsala was not just an elephant but a friend and a caregiver to many calves”. He also added that “she may not be here today, but her memories will always remain in the hearts”.

Affectionately called ‘Dadi Maa’ and ‘Nani Maa’ by the forest staff, Vatsala was brought from Kerala to Madhya Pradesh. She was known for her gentle, loving nature and acted as a caregiver to many elephant calves. She also assisted during the births of new elephant members at Panna Tiger Reserve. As per reports, she spent her final days at Hinauta Camp, where she was being looked after by her caregivers. 

Also Read: Kerala’s Herbivorous Elephants Are Now Leaning Towards A Non-Veg Diet Of Chicken Curry & Parotta

Vatsala’s Legacy Lives On 

As per NDTV, PTR Field Director Anjana Suchita Tirkey, Deputy Director Mohit Sood, and wildlife veterinarian Sanjeev Gupta rushed to the camp upon hearing the news of her death. Leaving behind a legacy of over 100 years, her last rites were held at the camp with full respect. You would also be interested in knowing that Vatsala was born in the Nilambur forests of Kerala and lived a long, meaningful life. She began her journey as a young elephant in the timber trade.

In 1971, she was brought to Hoshangabad in Madhya Pradesh and later moved to Panna Tiger Reserve in 1993. For over 10 years, Vatsala helped track tigers at PTR, contributing to conservation efforts. In 2003, she retired but continued to care for calves, giving them mother-like companionship.

Also Read: Elephant Breaks Into A Grocery Store In Thailand, Steals Sweet Rice Crackers And Walks Out. Watch!

Known for her calm nature towards forest staff, caregivers, and tourists, Vatsala will be deeply missed. She was truly the pride of Panna Tiger Reserve, and her legacy will undoubtedly live on.

Cover Image Courtesy: @DrMohanYadav51/ X