Black Beauty of Similipal Captivates the World: National Geographic Honors Odisha’s Pride

The black beauty of Similipal has stepped into the global spotlight, gracing the cover of National Geographic magazine. The elusive melanistic tiger—mysterious, majestic, and rare—now represents the untold natural heritage of Odisha to the world.

Behind this extraordinary feature stands Prasenjeet Yadav, who has etched his name in history as the first Indian to serve as both storyteller and photographer for a National Geographic cover story from India. His dedication to chronicling the tale of Similipal’s melanistic tigers goes beyond photography—it is a celebration of science, community, and conservation.

Nestled in Mayurbhanj district, Similipal is not just a tiger reserve; it is a living canvas painted by Bhu-devi herself. Its dense forests, rolling hills, and thriving biodiversity have long made it a sanctuary for explorers, researchers, and nature lovers. The melanistic tiger, however, remains its most captivating jewel.

Yadav’s story unfolds with breathtaking images of these rare cats, complemented by narratives of forest rangers and tribal communities who safeguard the ecosystem. His achievement is expected to inspire young Indians to embrace conservation storytelling and give India’s wilderness the recognition it deserves.

For Odisha, this global spotlight is more than just a feature—it is a moment of pride that affirms Similipal’s place as one of the world’s natural wonders.