It is with heavy hearts that the Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park (SVZP) in Tirupati announced the passing of Sameer, their beloved white tiger, who died early on Sunday, October 19, 2025. Sameer, a true crowd favorite for fourteen years, succumbed to age-related ailments, leaving behind many fond memories for visitors and staff alike.
This magnificent big cat, approximately 19 years old, originally arrived at the Tirupati zoo as a five-year-old cub in 2011, having been transferred from Nehru Zoological Park in Hyderabad, Telangana. As he grew older, Sameer’s mobility naturally declined, leading to his retirement from public viewing over a year ago. During this period, he resided comfortably in his night house, receiving dedicated and intensive care for various complications.
In his final three months, Sameer’s appetite for solid food diminished, and he was lovingly sustained on a liquid diet. Despite the tireless efforts of the zoo’s veterinary team, who closely monitored his health, the grand tiger eventually stopped consuming even liquid nourishment.
A post-mortem examination, conducted by experts from the pathology department at Sri Venkateswara Veterinary University (SVVU), confirmed the primary cause of death as hydronephrosis, a severe kidney condition, exacerbated by his advanced age. Sameer will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.