The Cult of the Tiger

This is a short book on the cultural and symbolic relevance of the tiger in Asia, and the decline of its cult over time. The author, one of the world’s foremost authorities on the tiger, argues that it is this very symbolic status of the tiger which has been responsible for its survival in Asia. With the invention of the gun, and an acceleration of sport-hunting, the status of the tiger declined, leading to the present situation where specific conservation efforts are necessary to ensure the tiger’s survival. In this little book, beautifully illustrated with rare photographs, the author discusses both the rich cult built around the tiger, and the problems faced by the animal across Asia. Valmik Thapar takes the reader on a journey from Siberia, across the Caspian, to Korea, and China, through Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia into Thailand and Malaysia, to the Indonesian Islands, and finally into Burma and India. Along the way, the reader encounters tales rich in folklore, belief and ritual, of worship, respect and fear of the majestic tiger. The author believes that those interested in tigers and their conservation, require an understanding of how this remarkable animal was worshipped and revered, in order to assure and work for its future survival. This fascinating account will appeal to anyone interested in the stories, myths and legends built around the tiger in Asia, and all wildlife and conservation enthusiasts.