Even though she passed away at the age of 11, Arrowhead left a powerful impact. Conservationists, animal lovers, and anyone who was lucky enough to have seen her in the wild will miss her deeply. Her spirit continues through her ten cubs and the lasting memories she gave to so many.
A Lineage of Legends
Arrowhead, born in 2014, was Krishna's (T-19) daughter and the granddaughter of the legendary Machhli (T-16), one of India's most famous tigresses, famous for her boldness and exceptional hunting abilities.
Arrowhead carried forward that same bold spirit. The distinct arrow-shaped mark on her left cheek made her instantly recognisable to guides, photographers, and visitors alike.
Over time, she became the queen of core zones 2, 3, 4 and 5 in Ranthambore National Park, confidentlyconfidently roaming the forests and lakes near Rajbagh and Padam Talab, which her mother and grandmother once ruled.
The Fearless Crocodile Hunter
Like her grandmother Machhli, Arrowhead became famous for her daring hunting techniques, including the uncommon ability to hunt crocodiles. This rare ability set her apart from the other big cats of the reserve, showing just how fearless and skilled she truly was.
Even in her final days, though she was unwell, she surprised everyone by taking down a crocodile near Padam Talab. It was a powerful moment that showed her strength and wild spirit.
A Mother Who Shaped the Future
Arrowhead contributed significantly to Ranthambore's tiger population by raising ten cubs across four litters. Her cubs, Riddhi, Siddhi, and Kankati (T-2507), carry on her tradition in the same woodland where she previously ruled.
Her youngest daughter, Kankati, was moved to Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve as part of a conservation project just hours before she passed away; it was a heartbreaking moment that symbolises hope and life's cycle.
A Queen's Silent Farewell
Arrowhead, Ranthambore's renowned tigress, was last sighted near Padam Talab. She moved slowly, rested beneath trees, and appeared to bid a silent farewell to the forest she had controlled for over a decade.
In her final days, despite her declining health, she stayed close to the safari routes. She often lay on her side, calmly gazing into the camera, allowing tourists to capture one last glimpse of her iconic presence.
Her presence remained strong and graceful to the end. Later, her remains turned up near Jogi Mahal and cremated at Rajbagh by NTCA regulations. Forest officials, guides, photographers, and local supporters gathered to pay their respects.
Remembering a Legend
Arrowhead, one of Ranthambore's most admired tigresses, stood as a powerful symbol of India's efforts to safeguard its tiger population. Her calm attitude, brave hunting, and compassionate parenthood made her memorable to everyone who met her.
She inspired generations of photographers, researchers, and wildlife enthusiasts, and her story is frequently featured in documentaries, safaris, and numerous memories.
Her Spirit Lives On
While Arrowhead Tigress death is a tremendous loss, her spirit lives on through her cubs and the wild paths she once walked. The lineage from Machhli to Krishna to Arrowhead represents the heart of Ranthambore, and it continues to shape the reserve's future.
Final Words
Arrowhead's journey was one of resilience, grace, and silent power. She was not just a tigress. She was a guardian of the forest, a nurturing mother, and a fearless hunter.
As the sun sets over Padam Talab and her pawprints fade into the earth, the memory of Arrowhead remains deeply rooted in the heart of Ranthambore and in the soul of every person who ever looked into her eyes.
FAQs
1. How old was the Arrowhead tiger?
Ans. Arrowhead was around 11 years old. She was born in 2014 and died in June 2025 in Ranthambore National Park.
2. Who is Arrowhead Tiger's mother?
Ans. Arrowhead was born to Krishna (T-19), who was the daughter of Machhli (T-16), one of the most admired and legendary tigresses in Ranthambore's wildlife history.
3. Who is the daughter of Arrowhead?
Ans. Arrowhead is believed to be the mother of Riddhi, Siddhi, and Kankati, who were often seen growing up within her territory in Ranthambore.
4. What zone is the Arrowhead tiger in?
Ans. Arrowhead (T‑84) primarily occupied Zones 2, 3, 4, and 5 of Ranthambore National Park, especially around Rajbagh, Nalghati, and Malik Talao.