Famous Tigers of Sariska: The Royal Comeback of the Jungle

Sariska National Park, a forest spread around the Aravalli hills of Rajasthan, is more than just a beautiful wildlife reserve. It’s a place where nature fought back and won. The story of Sariska is special because it’s not just about forests and hills but about the tigers who returned to the wild after disappearing completely. This is the story about zero tiger in 2004 to around 40 tigers till early 2024 in sariska.

There was a time when Sariska had no tigers at all. Yes, you read that right. By the year 2004, Sariska had lost all its tigers due to poaching. This was a big shock for wildlife lovers across India. But what happened next made history - for the first time in India, tigers were brought from another forest and reintroduced into Sariska. And that’s how the journey of Sariska’s famous tigers began.

Here are some of the famous tigers of Sariska who played an evident role in reviving tiger’s population in the Sariska Tiger Reserve-

ST1, a male tiger, was the first to be relocated from Ranthambore to Sariska in 2008. He was strong, alert, and quickly adapted to his new home. He played a big role in setting up the new tiger territory in Sariska. People still remember him as the one who brought life back into the park. Sadly, ST1 died in 2010, but his legacy remains.

ST2 (The RAJMATA) ST2, a female tiger, was also among the first tigers to be relocated. She adjusted well, and soon Sariska heard the sound of tiger cubs again. Born to the legendary tigress ‘Machli’ of Ranthambhore National Park, ST2 became the mother of 25 cubs over the time and earned the title of “RAJMATA” by the forest officials. She was the first to give birth in the park after years and that moment was a turning point in Sariska’s history. ST2 credited with helping to revive the reserve's tiger population, giving birth to legendary tigers like ST-7, ST-8, ST-13, and ST-14. She passed away in January 2024 at the age of 19.

ST4 (The Great Wanderer) ST4 was always on the move. He once walked more than 100 kilometers and went outside the park boundaries. He gave forest officials a tough time but also made headlines. ST4 taught us how tigers explore and try to find their space in the wild.

ST6 (The Silent King) ST6 became quite popular for his calm nature. He stayed mostly in the deep forest and avoided tourist routes. Though not seen often, his presence was strong in his territory. He had a powerful build and was respected by other tigers.

ST-9 (Ponytail) A female tiger who lost part of her tail due to a trap, but became a well-known and frequently sighted tigress in Sariska. She also significantly contributed in population growth with multiple breeding in sariska.

Other notable tigers ST-7, ST-8, ST-13, and ST-14 are also considered legendary tigers of Sariska.

The story of Sariska’s tigers is not just about animals. It’s a story of hope, effort, and never giving up. The forest department, scientists, and local communities worked together to protect these tigers. Their work made it possible for us to see these amazing big cats again in the wild. If you visit Sariska today and spot a tiger, then remember - it’s not just a sighting. It’s a dream that came true after years of struggle. It’s the roar that returned to the forest.

Sariska’s famous tigers remind us why every life in the jungle matters. Each tiger has its own tale - of survival, courage, and comeback. These big cats don’t just walk the forest - they rule it, protect it, and inspire us to do the same.