DEHRADUN: Uttarakhand on Saturday mourned the death of Vikram, a 21-year-old Bengal tiger and one of the most recognized residents of Jim Corbett National Park. Considered among the oldest tigers in the park’s history, Vikram died at the Dhela Rescue Centre, where officials suspect the cause was cardiac arrest linked to old age.
Vikram’s journey was both extraordinary and controversial. During his prime in the Dhikala range, he was known as a dominant and aggressive tiger. He was reportedly linked to the deaths of three forest department personnel, leading authorities to categorise him as a high-risk animal that required careful monitoring and management.
In May 2019, forest officials captured Vikram and transferred him to the Nainital Zoo to ensure public safety and maintain controlled care. However, the relocation brought unexpected challenges. In an incident widely remembered among forest staff, the tiger reportedly escaped from his enclosure, forcing authorities to rethink his housing arrangements.
Later, in April 2021, Vikram was shifted again, this time to the Dhela Rescue Centre within the Corbett landscape. He remained there under constant supervision for the rest of his life. Due to his aggressive nature and declining hearing ability, he was mostly kept in isolation during his later years. Despite these issues, veterinary teams continued to provide regular medical attention. Last year, he even underwent a successful tumor surgery, which temporarily improved his health.
Late on Saturday night, Vikram passed away due to age-related complications and suspected cardiac failure. A post-mortem examination was conducted by a panel of experts, including senior veterinarians from Corbett National Park and Nainital Zoo, under the supervision of reserve authorities. Senior forest officials were also present during the procedure.
According to Corbett Tiger Reserve Director Dr. Saket Badola, Vikram’s lifespan was exceptional for a Bengal tiger. Tigers in the wild generally live between 10 and 15 years, although some can survive up to 20 years. In captivity, where they receive regular food and medical care, tigers can live between 20 and 26 years, with female tigers usually living longer than males.
Vikram’s death brings to a close a long and complex chapter in the history of Corbett’s wildlife. His life reflected both the raw power of a top predator and the ongoing challenges faced by conservation authorities in managing human–wildlife conflict.
