A massive search operation is underway in India for the country's most famous tiger, with millions of adoring fans worried sick about the big cat known as Jai who went missing three months ago.

Named after Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan's character in the hit 1975 film Sholay, the tiger shot to nationwide fame three years ago after embarking on an epic hike through villages, rivers and perilously dangerous highways in successful pursuit of a mate.

A firm favourite with tourists and conservationists alike, the seven-year-old, 250-kilogram big cat was last seen at the Umred Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary, where he usually lives, on April 18.