Tourist Rush at Ranthambore During New Year, Territorial Clash Erupts Between Two Tigresses

Sawai Madhopur: As Ranthambore Tiger Reserve witnesses an unprecedented influx of tourists ahead of the New Year celebrations, a dramatic territorial conflict has surfaced deep inside the forest. Tigress T-124, popularly known as Riddhi, was involved in a fierce fight with her own daughter over territorial dominance, leaving both animals injured.

According to forest department officials, the confrontation took place in the 2504 Lake Area, a strategically important zone within the reserve. The clash reportedly stemmed from a long-simmering struggle for territorial control, as the younger tigress has been attempting to establish her own dominance in the region for some time.

During the fight, Tigress Riddhi sustained an injury to her leg and was later seen limping, while her daughter suffered a deep wound on her ear. Upon receiving information about the incident, forest authorities immediately swung into action and began close monitoring of both tigresses.

The incident has generated significant curiosity among tourists visiting Ranthambore, where bookings remain completely full until the first week of January. Hotels, resorts, and homestays in and around the reserve are operating at full capacity amid the festive rush.

Senior officials, including ROPT Ashwini Pratap Singh and Ranthambore Tiger Reserve’s Veterinary Officer Dr. C. P. Meena, reached Zone Number Three on Sunday evening to assess the situation. Continuous surveillance and field observation are currently underway.

Forest officials stated that photographic evidence and on-ground monitoring are being used to evaluate the severity of the injuries. Further medical intervention, if required, will be decided after receiving directions from higher authorities.

Notably, this is not the first confrontation between the mother-daughter duo. Repeated skirmishes have been reported in recent months as the younger tigress seeks to carve out her own territory. The forest department remains on high alert to prevent any major mishap and ensure the safety of both animals as well as visitors.

Ranthambore, one of India’s most prominent tiger reserves, continues to balance conservation challenges alongside rising tourism pressure—an issue once again highlighted by this rare yet intense wildlife encounter.