Valmik Thapar: India’s ‘Tiger Man’ Passes Away at 73 After Decades of Conservation Work

India’s renowned wildlife conservationist and acclaimed ‘Tiger Man’, Valmik Thapar, passed away at the age of 73 on Saturday morning at his residence on Kautilya Marg in New Delhi. He had been battling cancer for some time. His cremation is scheduled for 3:30 PM today at the Lodhi Electric Crematorium.

A towering presence in India’s environmental landscape, Thapar dedicated over four decades of his life to wildlife conservation, with a deep and lifelong passion for protecting tigers. Through his activism, writing, and documentaries, he played a pivotal role in shaping national conservation policies and public awareness.

In 1988, he co-founded the Ranthambhore Foundation, a non-governmental organization that promoted community-driven conservation efforts. Thapar consistently advocated for stricter anti-poaching laws and the demarcation of tiger habitats free from human interference.

His legacy is not only marked by policy contributions but also by his commitment to educating the public and inspiring generations of conservationists. Thapar authored more than 30 books on wildlife, produced several documentaries, and served on numerous government task forces, always pushing for the preservation of India’s rich biodiversity.

Valmik Thapar leaves behind a lasting legacy — one of unwavering dedication to India’s forests and the voiceless creatures that inhabit them. His profound contributions will continue to inspire and guide the nation’s conservation efforts for years to come.