Charger and Sita

Bandhavgarh National Park, situated in the Umaria district of Madhya Pradesh, was designated as a Tiger Reserve in 1993. Encompassing a core area of 716 square kilometers, this region boasts remarkable biodiversity, with an exceptionally high density of the apex predators, tigers. Its expansive grasslands and bamboo forests provide an ideal habitat for tiger sightings. The Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve is home to an estimated 35-45 tigers, making it a prime location for encountering these magnificent creatures. Let's delve into the captivating tales of some of Bandhavgarh's iconic tigers, whose legends rival the allure of the park itself!

Charger and Sita:

Charger, a male tiger known for his tendency to mock-charge elephants and tourists, gained global fame in the 1990s. His captivating presence even graced the cover of National Geographic magazine. Charger established his dominance by overthrowing the then-dominant male, Banka, after numerous intense battles and growling contests. From 1991 to 1999, Charger ruled the area alongside his mate, Sita. Today, the majority of tigers in Bandhavgarh can trace their lineage back to Charger and Sita. Sadly, Sita succumbed to poaching wounds, while Charger passed away of natural causes in 2000. His final resting place is known as "Charger Point."

B1, B2, and B3:

B2, the son of Charger and Sita, assumed the mantle of dominance from his father after a territorial struggle in 2004. B2 rose to become one of the mightiest tigers in the world. Notably, he harbored a strong aversion to harsh sounds, often launching attacks on vehicles. Numerous incidents were reported of B2's encounters with vehicles. In his twilight years, B2 engaged in a battle with another male tiger, sustaining multiple injuries. Tragically, he perished while being transported for treatment. B1 and B3, the other two sons of Charger and Sita, had to seek territories outside B2's domain as they could never challenge his supremacy. B1 later met his demise due to electrocution, while B3 fell victim to poaching.

Other Descendants:

Among the other notable descendants of Charger and Sita were Langru, known for his distinctive limp, who received nurturing from his parents even when he reached four years of age. Additionally, there were tigers like Pyari, Reshma, and Mohini. Mohini, a particularly stunning tigress, mated with the male tiger Mahaman but met a tragic end due to injuries sustained in a vehicular accident.

Bamera:

Bamera, born from B2's union with a female from the Siddhababa region, emerged as a dominant male following B2's departure. First sighted in 2008, Bamera became one of the prominent tigers in the region until his recent demise. Encounters with Bamera were often reported, and his presence left a lasting impression on visitors to the park.

Bokha:

Ruling over the Magdhi region of Bandhavgarh, Bokha's imposing presence is often indicated by his sizeable paw prints, which tourists frequently come across during safaris. He earned his name due to a broken tooth incurred during a fierce confrontation with another tiger. Bokha had numerous conflicts with B2 from the Tala zone area.

Spotty and Dotty:

Spotty, an exquisite tigress known for her bold demeanor, roams the Tala region. She acquired her name from a distinctive "T" mark above her right eye. Spotty is the offspring of Blue Eyes, a male tiger, and Sukhi Pateeha, a female tiger, both descendants of Charger. This majestic tigress is the proud mother of three female cubs who have since matured and moved on. Her mate, Mangu, reigns as the dominant male of the Tala region. Spotty shares her domain with her sister, Dotty.

Other prominent tigers frequently spotted in the Tala and Magdhi regions include Banbehi, Mirchaini, Rajbehra, Mahaman, Damdama, and Sukhi Pattiya. Within the park, numerous cubs are in the sub-adult stage, while others have transitioned into adulthood and ventured into new territories.

Bandhavgarh National Park, with its rich tiger population and the captivating stories of its iconic tigers, stands as a true gem among the Forests of India.