Tiger: Iconic Symbol of Asia

When Stripes Drew a Country’s Borders

- CR Ramana Kailash

In this article, CR Ramana Kailash discusses the deep-rooted connection between tigers and India's history and culture, which spans thousands of years. The earliest evidence of this bond can be traced back to the Indus Valley Civilization, where seals featuring tigers have been found. The tiger's significance went beyond just art; for many indigenous communities, especially in central India, the tiger was regarded as sacred. During the British colonial period, European explorers, missionaries, and traders shared stories of India's wild landscapes and wildlife with their homelands. However, these accounts were often exaggerated, leading to a distorted view of tigers and other animals, portraying them as vicious beasts. Keep reading to learn more...

Tigers have long been iconic symbols of Asia, embodying the mysticism associated with the "Oriental" world. Their historic range spanned vast regions, from Turkey to the Russian Far East, covering much of the continent. As these majestic creatures roamed freely, they became deeply intertwined with local cultures and natural histories. In Western narratives, however, tigers were exoticized and portrayed as fierce beasts from a distant, mysterious Orient. This imagery stood in stark contrast to that of the lion, which symbolized bravery and nobility in Mediterranean traditions.