A curious video from Katni district of Madhya Pradesh has gone viral on social media, capturing the unusual behavior of a tiger as it rubs its head against a sacred Shivling dedicated to Lord Shiva. This incident took place in the remote forests of Shahdar village, where the ancient Shivling is perched within dense woods, attracting attention not just for the tiger's actions but also as a point of spiritual intrigue among locals. The visual evidence shows the tiger approaching the Shivling calmly and engaging with it by rubbing its head and tongue against the stone.

The interpretations of the tiger's behavior vary significantly. While some viewers link this act to religious reverence and consider it a sign of devotion, wildlife officials provide a more biological explanation. They suggest that the tiger’s actions are typical of wild animal behavior; it could be a way for the tiger to mark its territory, relieve itchiness, or deposit its scent on a rough surface. Such behaviors are common amongst wild animals as they interact with their environment in various ways.

The local forest department is taking precautions following the video's circulation. Ajay Mishra, the regional ranger, has reported that the phenomenon occurred approximately 400 meters from Shahdar village. The forest department's patrol teams are maintaining vigilance in the area to ensure safety and monitor wildlife behavior. This incident not only fascinates viewers but also serves as a reminder of the complex interactions between wildlife and their ecosystems and raises questions on their behavior in relation to cultural sites.