Thapar was one of the most influential voices for wildlife preservation in India. He was closely associated with the Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve, where his deep connection with tigers and the landscape became emblematic of his life’s work. His passing has left the conservation community in mourning, with tributes pouring in from across the country
Valmik Thapar, 73, tpassed away on Saturday morning in New Delhi. Pic/X (@priyankagandhi)
Valmik Thapar, 73, the renowned wildlife conservationist, naturalist, and prolific author who dedicated over five decades to tiger conservation in India, passed away on Saturday morning in New Delhi.
Thapar was one of the most influential voices for wildlife preservation in India. He was closely associated with the Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve, where his deep connection with tigers and the landscape became emblematic of his life’s work. His passing has left the conservation community in mourning, with tributes pouring in from across the country.
Dr Anish Andheria, President & CEO of the Wildlife Conservation Trust. Pic/Facebook
Dr Anish Andheria, President & CEO of the Wildlife Conservation Trust, described Thapar as “truly synonymous with tigers.”
Andheria said, “Valmik Thapar was truly synonymous with tigers. His remarkable persona reflected the very animal he so deeply respected. While he could come across as stern, it often gave way to a wonderful, childlike enthusiasm, revealing his profound affection for all things wild and beautiful.
He was known for his unwavering honesty when it came to his views on the governance of India's forests and forest service. A compulsive writer and documenter of wildlife, his contribution as an author of natural history writings is immense and has been pivotal in inspiring countless people to love wildlife. Direct, infectious, forceful, charismatic, a true defender of wildlife – these words truly capture his essence.
His connection with Ranthambhore was as deep and abiding as that of Fateh Singh Rathore, who served as both his mentor and friend. In recent times, he and his family were spending precious moments observing, videographing, and enjoying tiger behavior at Ranthambhore, their cherished second home.
I will deeply miss his forthright and honest conversations. The fact that his baritone, often filled with urgency, will no longer be heard has brought home the profound realisation - the tiger has lost one of its strongest supporters. Knowing that Valmik is no longer with us, Ranthambhore will never be quite the same for me.”
Dharmendra Khandal, biologist and tiger expert from NGO Tiger Watch. Pic/Facebook
Dharmendra Khandal, biologist and tiger expert from NGO Tiger Watch, offered an emotional tribute,
"For more than two-decades, I have had the privilege of observing and learning from Valmik Sir. Since 2011, after Fateh Ji’s (Fateh Singh Rathore) passing, there hasn’t been a single week when we didn’t speak at least four times. Our conversations always revolved around Ranthambhore and its tigers.
He was constantly concerned about the conservation of Ranthambhore, especially its tigers. Whenever he visited, he’d go on both the morning and afternoon safaris, and I would sometimes accompany him on those afternoon safaris, which were truly remarkable, especially considering that he was 70 years old. His energy and passion remained unmatched.
Between safaris, Valmik Sir never took a break. He would often call me over to his home in Ranthambhore, not to rest, but to engage in deep discussions about Ranthambhore, its tigers, and everything related to wildlife conservation in India. His passion never waned, and even in those moments, his eye was always on the future of Ranthambhore and seeking solutions.
With Valmik Sir, it was not just a safari; It was like attending a masterclass in the wild, as he would share his experiences, 50 years of learning, insights about animal behavior , and fascinating anecdotes—which is not surprising, after all, he has worked on more than 150 committees, been a member of the National Wildlife Board for over 20 years, and headed numerous state wildlife boards.
Valmik Sir’s deep affection for the people of Ranthambhore was equally evident. Whether it was an officer or a junior staff member or villager, he always remembered and appreciated them, especially those that served during the early days of the reserve. He would often speak about their stories, stressing the importance of bringing these stories to the world before they disappeared. Whenever he came to Ranthambhore, he made it a point to gather a diverse array of local individuals under a single roof, talk about their contributions and inspire them to act in the service of Ranthambhore and its tigers.
Valmik Sir’s support played a pivotal role in my own journey. He involved me in the Rajasthan State Wildlife Board, where he made significant contributions to the welfare of the state’s wildlife and its wilderness.
Valmik Sir was generous with his praise for others. He admired two things: first, the uniqueness of a tiger photograph, regardless of whoever clicked it, and second, the excitement when someone shared new facts or observations of tiger behaviour. He was quick to praise and uplift, encouraging everyone around him.
Needless to say, Valmik Sir was deeply dedicated to wildlife conservation. His commitment was evident even in tasks that were not his direct responsibility, and he did it without complaint. I recall a time when we visited the Kailadevi forest at the end of April. It was scorching hot, yet Valmik Sir, despite his age, never hesitated to head into the jungle embarking on a full day drive. In recent years too, during the extreme heat of May and June, he would still go on safaris, sometimes draping a wet towel over his head for relief. His passion for wildlife and tiger never wavered.
It’s not that he wasn’t aware of the complications that came with age. Valmik Sir was always practical and knew when to step back. By mid-May, he had wrapped up his work, sensing that it was time. Even a few days before his passing, he sent voice notes that were as bold, and fearless as always.
Right until May 12th 2025, he was discussing his upcoming book, a monumental two-volume work celebrating 50 years of Ranthambhore. The book, entirely his own work, when published, will be his final contribution to an extensive and comprehensive body of work.
"In my lifetime, I have not encountered anyone more inspiring or motivating than Valmik Sir. Along with Fateh ji, these two individuals stand out as the most inspiring people I have ever met," he said.
Sunil Limaye, former Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Maharashtra) and member of the Supreme Court-appointed Central Empowered Committee (CEC)
Sunil Limaye, former Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Maharashtra) and member of the Supreme Court-appointed Central Empowered Committee (CEC), reflected on his long association with Thapar since 2007.
Limaye said, "I had the privilege of associating with the legendary Valmik Thapar since 2007–2008. Our first meeting occurred in 2011 during a visit to Rajasthan for the State Wildlife Board meeting. From that moment, our discussions spanned various topics related to wildlife conservation, particularly focusing on tigers and leopards."
He said, "In 2015, I had the opportunity to meet him again. He expressed his appreciation for the efforts of the Maharashtra Forest Department and Sanjay Gandhi National Park in involving local stakeholders and fostering awareness about human-leopard coexistence in urban landscapes."
Limaye added, "A few years ago, Valmik reached out to me regarding the controversial decision to capture the famous tiger T24, also known as Ustaad, from Ranthambore due to human-tiger conflict incidents. After a long discussion we concurred that, in the larger interest of both tiger and human safety, the decision to relocate the tiger was the most prudent course of action."
"Valmik was a vocal advocate for tiger conservation, and his pioneering work significantly contributed to revitalizing tiger reserves across the country. His authored books and wildlife documentaries will continue to perpetuate his legacy," he added.
I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family and friends during this time of loss, he said.
Prerna Bindra, wildlife conservationist and author of The Vanishing: India’s Wildlife Crisis. Pic/LinkedIn
Prerna Bindra, wildlife conservationist and author of The Vanishing: India’s Wildlife Crisis, called Thapar “a powerful voice for tiger conservation globally.
Bindra said, "Valmik Thapar was a powerful voice for tiger conservation globally and is synonymous with his beloved Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve . He has inspired generations of young people to take up the cause while also closely working with governments at policy level. His most significant contribution was with the Supreme Court's Central empowered Committee where during his tenure, along with other members, made important policy decisions to protect wildlife and its habitat. His loss is deeply felt.He was such a passionate , powerful orator and inspired many to care for the tiger and its forest."
Kedar Gore, Director of The Corbett Foundation. Pic/Facebook
Kedar Gore, Director of The Corbett Foundation said, "Valmik Thapar, one of the most powerful voices that roared for the tiger, is silenced forever. His books, articles, photographs and speeches echoed his deep understanding of the natural world, which he very fiercely defended till his last. He was a great inspiration for two generations of wildlife conservationists, who would now carry on this battle for the longterm existence of our national animal. He was among the few in India who could fearlessly call spade a spade without mincing words. His passing on is the end of an era and a great loss for tigers and forests. Valmik Thapar will live forever in our hearts and in the forest of Ranthambhor."
Debi Goenka, Executive Trustee of the Conservation Action Trust
Debi Goenka, Executive Trustee of the Conservation Action Trust, paid tribute to Thapar’s early and enduring dedication to tiger conservation.
He said, "Valmik was one of the original “tiger wallahs”, who dedicated his life for tigers and for Ranthambore. He was also a great photographer, and the many books that he wrote based on his personal experiences in the field are studded with his incredible photographs. He was able to get together many environmental and wildlife groups, and his “Tiger Watch” initiative helped to keep us connected for many years. He was a gracious host, and the time I spent with him in the field in Ranthambore, and even in SGNP in Mumbai, bring back fond memories. I recall a conference in Kolkata, when Valu was in a heated discussion with some of the other “tiger wallahs” about the actual number of tigers in India (at that time, tiger census was carried out using the pug mark method). Various highly inflated figures were being bandied. I put a quietus to the discussion by reminding them that all tigers had four paws, and that all the census estimates had to be divided by four!We have lost a great warrior. We will miss him."
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