Tiger Directory

[Pckts]

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V7 – The Hero of Shirkada (TATR)
I was back again to Tadoba last month, my favorite tiger hunting spot. This tiger reserve has never disappointed me, why me, rather no one will ever come back with empty SD card. It is here where one can more often boast about number of tigers being sighted rather than quizzing if it will be seen at all. The vast expanse of Tadoba National Park and adjoining Andhari Tiger Reserve, the entire TATR as it is fondly called by the tiger lovers is mostly covered by bamboo and teak. Cliffs, flatlands, lakes, marshes and suitable vegetation houses the high density of tiger population.
Tadoba is famous for its three core zones – Moharli, Tadoba & Kolsa that can be approached by 6 gates and the buffer areas are better known as Alizanza, Devada, Agarzari, Junona, Kolara & Ramdegi. However, off late another new buffer area has been opened up to the wildlife enthusiast and that is Shirkada. Core areas have the actual forests and no human interaction happens. Buffer area on the contrary have seen co-existence of villagers and tigers here. With cheaper entry tickets in the buffers, tourism is boosted, and the revenue earned is supposed to be used for the development of the local villagers. The spill over (due to territorial fights) of the tigers from the core zone ensures a good sighting in this area too.
Shirkada, the new buffer did not dishearten me too. V7 as he is known as, is a huge and yes when I say huge, he is huge. We saw him sitting in the water hole, bottom dipping, panting with the oppressive heat. His body moved with each breath he took, and I loved his white beard. No, he is not the famous Dadhiwala (bearded) yet his white beard hang from one side. As my lens slowly met his eyes, they silently passed on a message.
He seemed interrupted and asked me politely – “Now you want to click me dipping in the pool? With my black bottoms? Have some patience to atleast allow me some time to dress up after the cool bath…I know you will use this photo of mine Gopi…not good…kya Gopi…”
I smile…I click on…

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