Bhubaneswar, Aug. 12: Kusum, the white tigress who was once one of Nandankanan Zoological Park's most popular attractions, died here this morning.

Zoo officials said that the 18-year-old tigress died of old age. They also said the tigress had been taken off display for the tourists since April 2014 after she lost her capability to move.

"She was kept in the feeding chamber and her condition became serious in the last week of July. Her food intake capacity was also reducing fast and she had not eaten anything in the past three days," said deputy director of the zoo Jayant Dash.

Kusum had bred seven offsprings in three litters (five white and two orange). A total of 18 tigers trace their lineage to Kusum.

"She was herself born in the zoo and was one of the most loved animals here. With her death, the present tiger population of the zoo stands at 25, including eight white ones," said Dash.

Nandankanan shot into the limelight in 1980 when white tigers were born to orange father-daughter pair Deepak and Ganga, who were not related to any captive white tiger.

Kusum's death also overshadowed celebrations on World Elephant Day at the zoo. The zoo authorities made elaborate arrangements for the elephants, who were decked up in decorated robes and mingled with people. The seven elephants, including Gouri and Kamala, were dressed up in special apparels and offered a variety of fruits.

A number of schoolchildren who were present at the zoo also fed the elephants. "It was a wonderful experience to feed the elephants. I was a bit afraid initially, but the elephant took the bananas from me. They are very friendly," said Sabyasachi, a student.