Story behind picture of Tiger resting on Budha’s head

On the occasion of Buddha Purnima 2024, industrialist Anand Mahindra shared a powerful and evocative image on social media. The photo, which shows a Siberian tiger resting on a statue of Lord Buddha, was originally taken at the Kolmården Wildlife Park in Sweden and first posted on March 7, 2014.

Tiger resting on Buddha’s head [photographer unknown]. pic.twitter.com/NnuM5IQDZb

— Steve Silberman (@stevesilberman) March 7, 2014

Story of picture of Tiger resting on Budha’s head

Buddha Purnima, also known as Vesak or Buddha Jayanti, is celebrated worldwide on the full moon day in the Hindu month of Vaisakha (usually in April or May). This significant festival commemorates the birth of Prince Siddhartha, who later became Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism.

Anand Mahindra’s post on X included the caption, “When you tame and unleash the tiger within you at the same time.” The striking image and thoughtful message resonate deeply with the principles of Buddhism.

When you tame & unleash the tiger within you at the same time….#BuddhaPurnima pic.twitter.com/h8fOzvQDfE

— anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) May 23, 2024

“Combine the ferocity of the tiger with the calm of Buddha to navigate life’s challenges with grace and power,” commented one user. “One the most beautiful picture of Buddha I saw,” said another.

“Embrace the duality within. Fierce yet gentle, wild yet disciplined. Balance opposing energies harmoniously. Inner peace arises,” a third user said.

The Amur tiger, also known as the Siberian tiger, is one of the largest cat species in the world, with some individuals weighing up to 300 kilos. These majestic creatures originate from the region near the Amur River in eastern Russia and are also found in northern China and North Korea.

Gautama Buddha, according to Buddhist traditions, was born in 623 BC in Lumbini, in the Terai region of Nepal. His journey from a sheltered prince to an enlightened teacher is marked by his renunciation of royal life in search of truth. After years of meditation, Siddhartha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya, India. He spent the remainder of his life spreading teachings of compassion, non-violence, and the path to liberation from suffering.

Buddha Purnima is observed with various rituals and practices to honor Buddha’s teachings and legacy. Devotees typically begin the day with visits to temples and monasteries, offering prayers, flowers, incense, and candles. These offerings symbolize the transient nature of life and the dedication to following the path of enlightenment.

Kolmården Wildlife Park

Kolmården Wildlife Park, located in Sweden, is the largest zoo in Scandinavia. It opened in 1965 and includes various attractions such as the first dolphinarium in Scandinavia, a cable car safari, and several animal exhibits like Tiger World and Dolphin Lagoon. The park features an array of animals, including the only gorillas, bottle-nosed dolphins, and Indian elephants in Sweden. It also has a unique collection of species such as bush dogs, addax antelopes, and Grévy’s zebras.

The park has experienced some significant changes and incidents over the years. In 2011, the drive-through safari park was replaced with a low-going cableway, and in 2016, the park introduced Wildfire, a major roller coaster. Unfortunately, there have been some tragic incidents, including the death of a zookeeper in 2012 due to a wolf attack and earlier fatal accidents involving a lion attack and an elephant handler’s death.

Despite these incidents, Kolmården Wildlife Park remains a popular destination, known for its educational and entertaining attractions. The park continues to evolve, providing visitors with close encounters with wildlife and various amusement rides, while also emphasizing animal conservation and safety.