The Legendary Lions of Gir Who Ruled, Fought, and Fell Together
Gir National Park is the only wildlife destination in India where Asiatic lions are found. Among the massive population of the Asiatic lions, Jai and Veeru are the lion pals who had the same friendship as exemplified in the Bollywood movie ‘Sholay’. This lion duo once ruled the land of the Gir forest. Their inseparable friendship was even mentioned by the Prime Minister, Narendra Modi. In the wild, there is always a tug of war goes on for territorial capture. In this case, too, Jai, the elder lion, was attacked by two other lions. The incident happened when Veeru was not around. After a few days of this incident, Veeru was attacked and was left badly wounded. Both lions succumbed to the injuries within a few days. Jai died on June 11, while Veeru died on July 29, 2025.
The Rise of Brotherhood in the Wild
Born around 2015, Jai and Veeru rose to dominance in the Kennedypur-Natalia VD region of Gir National Park. By working together, they managed to defeat the then-dominant males, establishing their reign over a sprawling 140 sq km territory that extended from tourism zones to untouched woodland and grassland fringes. For nearly a decade, they ruled this territory with unmatched strength and unity, commanding a pride of around 15 lionesses and fathering close to 30 cubs. What set Jai and Veeru apart from other lion coalitions was their deep bond. Rangers, photographers, and locals frequently observed the two walking side by side, patrolling their land, resting under the same trees, and defending their territory in perfect coordination. They were not just rulers; rather, they were brothers in spirit.
Their charisma and strength earned them fame well beyond the forest. Tourists visiting Gir often sought a glimpse of the pair, and their frequent appearances in prime safari zones made them a favourite among wildlife photographers. Their boldness was unmatched - never bothered by jeeps or humans, they would often be seen walking 3-4 km along tourist tracks. Even Prime Minister Narendra Modi encountered them during a safari in March 2025. The lions reportedly appeared directly in front of the Prime Minister’s vehicle, a moment that was captured and shared widely, further cementing their legendary status.
Forest officials and villagers alike noted their disciplined behaviour. Despite their immense power, Jai and Veeru never harmed humans, making them popular among nearby communities. Their rule was one of dominance, not fear.
A Tragic Separation
In June 2025, Jai and Veeru were not patrolling together. During this period, both lions were seriously injured in territorial fights. Veeru, who sustained the more severe wounds, died on June 11 despite every attempt by forest officials and veterinarians to save him. Though rescued and treated with equal urgency, Jai too succumbed to his injuries on July 29, 2025. Their deaths, spaced a few weeks apart, were deeply mourned by wildlife enthusiasts and forest officials. Rajya Sabha MP and wildlife supporter Parimal Nathwani said, ‘To every wildlife enthusiast who has witnessed the majestic presence of Jai-Veeru or heard tales of their bond - this loss is personal.’
When dominant males like Jai and Veeru die, the harsh consequences are passed on to their pride. Their cubs, still young, face threats from incoming males who often eliminate existing offspring to establish their lineage. In fact, two cubs have already perished in this transition - one due to illness, the other due to attack by a new male. Forest officials report that lionesses from the Gandharia and Dedkadi regions have fled with their cubs to safer zones, trying to shield them from these new threats. The story of Jai and Veeru is one of dominance, brotherhood, and legacy.
