Bhopal, Friday, November , 2024, The Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, located in the Umaria district of Madhya Pradesh, stands as a global heritage site, celebrated for its unparalleled biodiversity, rare wildlife, and cultural significance. The reserve is home to the **Bandhavgarh Fort**, ancient temples from the Kalchuri period, and a vibrant ecosystem featuring 165 tigers and over 100 species of butterflies, including several rare varieties.
### **Historical and Cultural Legacy**
Before becoming a national park, Bandhavgarh was the private property of the Maharajas of Rewa. The dense forests and hills were a hunting ground for royalty and visiting dignitaries. Post-independence, Maharaja Martand Singh donated the fort and surrounding forests to the Madhya Pradesh government in 1967 for wildlife conservation. The area was declared a national park, and in 1981, it was incorporated into the **Project Tiger** initiative.
### **Ecological Richness**
Spread over **1,526 square kilometers**, the reserve encompasses core and buffer zones teeming with wildlife. Key highlights include:
– **Tigers**: According to the 2022 census, Bandhavgarh hosts over **165 tigers**, making it one of the densest tiger populations in the world.
– **Bison (Gaur)**: Introduced from Kanha Tiger Reserve in 2012, their population has grown to around 200, thriving in the reserve’s favorable conditions.
– **Barasingha**: A rare species nearing extinction globally, Barasinghas were also relocated from Kanha and have adapted well.
– **Wild Elephants**: Since 2018, herds of approximately 70-80 elephants have made the reserve their habitat.
Other prominent wildlife includes **leopards, bears, nilgai, cheetal, sambhar**, and several bird species.
### **Butterfly Survey**
For the first time, a two-day **butterfly survey** was conducted, identifying over **100 butterfly species**, including rare varieties such as **Common Red Eye**, **Black Raja**, **King Crow**, and **Indian Dartlet**. The survey relied on manual recording rather than mobile apps, underscoring its meticulous approach.
### **Flora and Religious Significance**
The reserve is dominated by dense **sal and bamboo forests**, offering a picturesque habitat for wildlife and a serene environment for visitors. Bandhavgarh’s cultural landmarks include:
– **Ram-Janaki Temple**: Located near the Bandhavgarh Fort, this temple is a major pilgrimage site, especially during **Janmashtami**.
– **Kabir Caves**: Revered by Kabirpanthis, these caves host annual gatherings during **Aghan Purnima** for worship and rituals.
– **Saint Sen’s Tapasthali**: Dedicated to the revered Sant Shiromani Sen, a temple and memorial are under construction near the reserve boundary.
### **Tourism and Conservation**
Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve is a prime attraction for wildlife enthusiasts and cultural tourists alike. Its combination of majestic wildlife, historical landmarks, and spiritual significance makes it a unique destination. Conservation efforts continue to ensure the protection of its delicate ecosystem while promoting responsible tourism.
Bandhavgarh truly embodies a harmonious blend of nature, history, and culture, earning its status as a global treasure.
Author: This news is edited by: Abhishek Verma, (Editor, CANON TIMES)
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