Meet Vatsala: India’s beloved and Asia’s oldest elephant who lived more than 100 years

Meet Vatsala: Commemorating Vatsala, Asia's oldest elephant who lived more than 100 years with grace and strength. (Image: @Protect_Wldlife/X)

Regal Leader in the Wild: Vatsala was a kind yet strong leader of Panna Tiger Reserve's forests for decades. (Image: @prasun004/X)

Final Days at Panna: She died peacefully close to Khairaiya Nala after a fight with a leg injury and poor eyesight. (Image: @AnupamSharmaIFS/X)

Care and Compassion: Daily care, such as special meals and health checks, were provided to Vatsala by reserve staff to aid her old age. (Image: @ARVINDKAIN4/X)

A Guiding Presence: Younger elephants were led by Vatsala and tended calves, gaining respect as a benevolent grandmotherly figure. (Image: @Protect_Wldlife/X)

Involvement in Conservation: She was actively involved in facilitating the tiger reintroduction program at Panna Reserve. (Image: @Protect_Wldlife/X)

A Beloved Icon: Forest staff and tourists held Vatsala in affection for her tranquil nature and leadership. (Image: @susantananda3/X)

Lasting Legacy: Although she no longer trods the paths, Vatsala's spirit remains in Panna's forest and hearts. (Image: @susantananda3/X)