The story is set on the left bank of the Ganga River, in a heavily forested area that has been a hunting ground for seventy years. Over time, the forest has receded due to human activities, leading to a decline in the animal population. Amid this landscape, only one old tiger remains.

This aging tiger is wise and crafty, having survived numerous attempts on its life by hunters. It navigates the jungle with confidence, seeking water, and becomes a mysterious yet familiar presence to two village boys, Ramu and Shyam. The boys have a symbiotic relationship with the tiger, coexisting peacefully as long as they leave their buffaloes alone.

The narrative unfolds through various incidents, depicting the routine interactions between the tiger, the boys, and other creatures of the forest. The tiger’s encounters with a sloth bear, a jungle rat, and its hunting expeditions are intricately woven into the fabric of the story.

As the dry season ensues, bringing new life to the forest, the villagers become increasingly wary of the tiger, especially after it kills a buffalo. Determined to protect their livestock, the villagers embark on a mission to drive the tiger away. The story culminates in a dramatic confrontation between the tiger and the villagers, resulting in the tiger’s apparent demise.

The villagers, initially relieved by the tiger’s absence, soon realize the consequences of its loss. The forest, once protected by the tiger, becomes vulnerable to external threats. The narrative ends with a sense of nostalgia for the lost guardian of the forest, highlighting the intricate balance between humans and wildlife.

In a twist of fate, the river carries the seemingly drowned tiger to a distant shore. As the tiger regains strength, it roars, signaling the possibility of more tigers in the land. The villagers, recognizing the loss of a noble protector, feel the impact of the tiger’s absence on the forest’s vitality.

The story, through its vivid descriptions and interconnected events, addresses themes of human-wildlife coexistence, environmental conservation, and the consequences of disrupting the delicate balance of nature. Ruskin Bond skillfully crafts a narrative that not only captures the beauty of the natural world but also serves as a reflection on the interconnectedness of all living beings.