The country is home to around 70% of the world's tiger population, so it has gone to many lengths to ensure their sustained existence through conservation projects, first initiated in 1973, then known as Project Tiger.
Though it is of international interest that these practices are maintained, especially considering the tiger population in the rest of the world continues to be in decline, the animal has a particular cultural significance in India and other parts of Asia.
The striking animal, with its majestic and individual markings is recognised as the national animal of India, or the Lord of Jungles. For the country, it represents a wealth in wildlife, with the grace it displays in strength and power being highly respected and worshipped.
Such is the value of the royal animal, that through the barrier of the hundreds of languages spoken in India, the special relationship with the tiger manages to transcend them all. Religions and folklore alike place great pride in the orange and black cat.
Some believe it is has the ability to stop drought, lead children to safety, and ward away nightmares. In certain parts, especially in the south, people will paint themselves in the tiger's colours and dance in the street to celebrate its prowess and dominance.
The tiger's importance in India can not be underestimated, but it is also highly valued in China, Japan and Korea.
The most fascinating fact I learned in my research for this blog, was that the shape of markings on the forehead of a tiger, bares significant similarity to the Chinese character that translates to 'King' in English. The hunting abilities of the tiger also mean it is called upon in teachings of marshal arts, and to represent the highest army generals of Imperial China.
Before writing this, I admired the animal mostly for its surface beauties, but I now have further admiration for the way such respect for a fellow animal has enabled its ability to survive.
