Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve: A Global Treasure of Bio-Diversity

The globally renowned Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve in Umaria district is a UNESCO World Heritage site, celebrated for its exceptional biodiversity, rare wildlife, Kalchuri-era fort and ancient temples dedicated to Hindu deities. Before the establishment of the Tiger Reserve, the fort and surrounding structures nestled within the forested hills were the private property of the Maharaja of Rewa. These areas served not only as the royal family’s residence but also as a venue for state functions. The dense forests were once the exclusive hunting grounds of the royalty, attracting kings and dignitaries from across the country and abroad for hunting expeditions.

After India gained independence, the then Maharaja of Rewa, Martand Singh, donated the entire forest, including the fort, to the Madhya Pradesh government in 1967 to establish a national park and promote wildlife conservation. Following this, Bandhavgarh National Park was created by the state government. In 1981, the Central Tiger Project was initiated at the site. Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve is renowned for its abundant water sources, which sustain its exceptional biodiversity and lush greenery, making it stand out among forests globally. These water sources, combined with ample pastures, dense forests, and essential resources, provide an ideal habitat for herbivorous and carnivorous wildlife. This has allowed the reserve to become a haven for some of the rarest wild animals and birds.

Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve is globally recognized for its dense tiger population, giving it a unique identity. Spanning a core and buffer area of 1,526 square kilometers, the reserve recorded over 165 tigers in the 2022 census. Additionally, 49 bison were translocated from Kanha Tiger Reserve in 2012, and under favorable conditions, their population has grown to approximately 200, roaming freely within the reserve. Barasingha, a rare and endangered species, were also introduced from Kanha and have successfully adapted to Bandhavgarh. Since 2018, wild elephants have made the reserve their home, with about 70 to 80 individuals moving in herds across various areas of the park.

In addition to tigers, Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve is home to a rich diversity of wildlife, including bison, wild elephants, Nilgai, bears, leopards, chital, and sambhar, making it a hub of biodiversity and a popular destination for tourism. The reserve is surrounded by dense forests of bamboo and sal trees, enhancing its natural beauty. Beyond its wildlife, Bandhavgarh is steeped in religious and cultural significance. The Lord Ram-Janaki Temple, located near Bandhavgarh Fort, is a major center of devotion, attracting thousands of devotees from across the country during the annual Janmashtami festival fair.

The Kabir Cave, situated in the hills of Bandhavgarh, holds spiritual importance for Kabirpanthis. Every year, on Aghan Purnima, followers of Kabir gather here to offer prayers and honor his legacy. Bandhavgarh is also associated with the penance site of Saint Shiromani Sen. To commemorate his spiritual contributions, the Madhya Pradesh government has designated land near the Tiger Reserve for the construction of a temple and mausoleum in his honor, with the construction work already underway.

Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, renowned globally for its tiger population, recently conducted its first-ever two-day butterfly survey. A total of 61 participants from 15 camps within the reserve carried out a walking survey in the forests, documenting their findings on survey sheets. The survey identified over 100 species of butterflies, including more than five rare species. Notable butterflies recorded included the Common Red Eye, Black Raja, King Crow, and Indian Dart Lett. The survey was conducted manually without the use of mobile apps, with all data meticulously recorded on paper.