The tiger and the tigress cub at the Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens in Mysore, were adopted by Iyengar who turned 90 on December 14. He took the step last Friday in Mysore.

He donated Rs 1,20,000-Rs 90,000 for the tiger and Rs 30,000 for the cub-towards the one-year adoption plan. But in January, on the death anniversary of his wife, Iyengar intends extending the commitment to a lifetime one. “They are my new kids. I have already informed the zoo authorities of my intention to extend it to lifetime adoption. The confirmation and legal formalities are in progress,” said Iyengar.

The animals will stay in Mysore zoo and the amount donated by Iyengar will be used on their food, health and maintenance. “After seeing the facilities at the zoo, I was assured they would have a healthy life,” he added.

Iyenger last week visited the south with his students from all over the world who had come for his birthday celebrations. After visiting his birthplace Bellur, the guru and disciples went to Mysore. There, Iyengar learnt about the newly found tigers.

“When I was touring the zoo, the authorities asked me to bless the tigers. I placed my hand on the cub. It immediately touched my heart. To make the blessings meaningful, I instantly decided to adopt the two. They are undergoing various tests and examinations now,” he said.

Iyengar added that though this made for a special birthday gift, it was more of a way of giving back to society that, he feels, has given him so much. “When we talk about health, it involves all our fellow beings. It is our social duty and moral responsibility to safeguard animals. Wildlife conservation is the need of the day and people must understand its importance. I wish more people come forward to save wildlife,” said Iyengar who is also the chairman of the newly formed Indian Yoga Association.

Incidentally nearly half of the 1,000- odd mammals, birds and reptiles in the 118-year-old Mysore zoo have been adopted by individuals and organisations.