The Nilgiris, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve located in the Western Ghats of India, is unlike any other region in the country. Here, tropical forests, high-altitude grasslands and shola woodlands converge into a unique ecosystem that supports an extraordinary array of wildlife. From leopards and gaur to laughing thrushes, the species found here often adapt in unexpected ways to the encroaching human landscapes around them. However, it is not just the animals but also the people following the ancient tradition of coexistence, who play a role in maintaining this delicate balance.
It’s a matter of interdependence Nilgiri – a shared forestA newly-released documentary produced by Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies and directed by acclaimed wildlife filmmaker Sandesh Kadur. Launched in Chennai on November 3 on the occasion of International Biosphere Reserve Day, the film highlights the resilience of Nilgiri wildlife amid increasing encroachment and ongoing efforts to promote a culture of conservation.
Sandesh, whose films have been shown on various major television networks including National Geographic Channel, BBC, Discovery Channel and Animal Planet, discusses the genesis of the project, “This journey began about three years ago with a conversation between Rohini, Nandan Nilekani and Had started. Self. Rohini, who spends a lot of time in the Nilgiris, raised the topic during one of our evening walks.
Moyar River Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
Despite the extensive literature on the Nilgiris, the group did not find any comprehensive documentaries specifically about this mountain range, a surprising finding given its status as India’s first UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. That realization sparked his ambition to create a new one.
reverse story
As a filmmaker with a deep connection with the Nilgiris, Sandesh was perfect for the task. He recalls his experiences photographing the area for his book Sahyadris: India’s Western Ghats – a vanishing heritage“I spent a lot of time exploring all corners of the Nilgiris. This was my first proper introduction to this unique landscape, where you can experience different types of habitats within half a day. You can go from scrubland to tropical forests along the slopes to the north, then to grasslands and shoals. It’s incredibly unique that way.”
The documentary takes viewers on a journey across this landscape, revealing an ecosystem where the future of humans and wildlife are increasingly intertwined. “The nature of this place is such that a lot of wildlife visits tea gardens, private houses and other places,” Sandesh explains. He said while wildlife numbers are declining globally, the Nilgiris offer a “reverse story” where species like leopards and gaur are increasingly seen living alongside humans.
A Sambar deer among tea bushes in the Nilgiris. Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
Rohini, who was actively involved during the filming, recalls moments that highlighted this interaction, including seeing Moyar Waterfall and seeing a black panther with her cubs in a tea plantation. She has seen flycatchers bathing in her yard and has even encountered a sloth bear wandering around her house.
For Rohini, these encounters reinforce the message of co-existence at the heart of the film. “There will be animals everywhere. We can’t keep them locked up in forests,” she says. He believes that India’s biodiversity has survived because of its 5,000-year-old cultural tradition of respecting nature. “Our film is a tribute to that culture,” she adds, “With our peak population and extreme pressure on land, animals and humans are competing for space. “Younger generations must understand how precious our biodiversity is, even to our own future.”
‘Create, Connect, Protect’
The film encourages viewers to embrace a broader understanding of wilderness, which also includes human-occupied spaces. “The Nilgiris are a wonderful example of this successful adaptation,” says Sandesh, adding that the documentary shows how animals like leopards and sambar deer have adjusted to life with people. Through scenes depicting leopards roaming in tea gardens or deer grazing near houses, Nilgiri – a shared forest Offers a perspective that questions traditional definitions of wilderness as isolated, untouched areas.
Sandesh explains that the documentary is based on the philosophy of “Create, Connect, Conserve”. “We create powerful films that connect people and inspire them to help conserve the landscapes, natural places and wildlife around them.” Their purpose is to create an appreciation for the unique species of eucalyptus and encourage visitors to support conservation efforts. “For example, there is the Nilgiri saliya, a lizard that is found only 2,300 meters above the Nilgiri plateau,” he adds, “It cannot be found anywhere else on the planet. But you can find it in a garden in the middle of Ooty.
Nilgiri Chilappan | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
Although the film touches on human-animal conflict lightly, Sandesh took care not to dwell on it. “We have deliberately avoided focusing on stories of human-wildlife conflict,” he said, adding that although these stories could be dramatic, he wanted to highlight the message of peaceful co-existence. The approach of the documentary is not about assigning blame but about promoting respect for the symbiotic relationship between man and nature. “Our goal is to instill pride in having such unique and fascinating animals living nearby.”
Nifilms – A Shared Forest It is both a celebration of the region and a call to action. As Sandesh says, “Seeing you work so hard all your life makes you want to work harder. It makes you feel like you need to be a part of that resiliency, incorporating a little bit of their spirit.
published – December 24, 2024 03:34 PM IST
