How are tigers represented in Hindu mythology?

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A Bengal tiger with orange fur and black stripes lies on the ground, facing forward with its front legs crossed. — tiger The forests of West Bengal are inhabited by the endangered Bengal tiger (*Panthera tigris tigris*).

In Hindu mythology, the tiger is primarily recognized as the vahana (vehicle) of the goddess Durga. She is frequently depicted riding either a tiger or a lion as she embodies her divine power.123

Beyond this specific role, tigers have held a significant place in Indian culture and history for millennia. They appear on seals from the ancient Indus civilization, and the Gupta emperor Samudra famously minted gold coins that depicted him slaying tigers, symbolizing strength and royal authority.12