His face tells the story: that signature right tooth, permanently exposed from old battle scars, gives him a look as fierce as his reputation. Born in late 2016 to Choti Tara, he grew into one of Tadoba’s most fearless young males.
Known for his fiery in attitude, he took on every fight that came his way and at a young age, he had already battled — and defeated — several large males, including Mowgli and Bajrang.
The morning I spent with him in spring of 2025 one of my most memorable moments. I was hoping to plan my next trip as dedicated around spotting him, but unfortunately learnt local connects that in August 25, Chota Mataka suffered severe injuries in a territorial clash and had to be rescued and rehabilitated. A reminder that it is a privilege to treasure the moments we get.
If you ever get an opportunity to visit tigers in India, I hope you take some time to get to know the local villages and how much they sacrifice for the well being of tigers. (And tip you govt guide / drivers well, as they are from the local villages).
Known for his fiery in attitude, he took on every fight that came his way and at a young age, he had already battled — and defeated — several large males, including Mowgli and Bajrang.
The morning I spent with him in spring of 2025 one of my most memorable moments. I was hoping to plan my next trip as dedicated around spotting him, but unfortunately learnt local connects that in August 25, Chota Mataka suffered severe injuries in a territorial clash and had to be rescued and rehabilitated. A reminder that it is a privilege to treasure the moments we get.
If you ever get an opportunity to visit tigers in India, I hope you take some time to get to know the local villages and how much they sacrifice for the well being of tigers. (And tip you govt guide / drivers well, as they are from the local villages).
