The Fun! The Frolic! The Bonding! The Satire!
As an adult, my first park visit was to Ranthambore in December 2021, just after the first wave of COVID-19, and the arrival of my two daughters, the light in my eyes. That trip marked the beginning of many journeys and opened doors to numerous friendships, diverse perspectives, and invaluable lessons about people from the interior regions of India. It also revealed the flaws and greed inherent in human nature, and I confess to being complicit in these shortcomings. I reflect on this in my memoirs as I strive not to repeat past mistakes.
Word travels fast, and rumors even faster. People love to talk, often speaking about one another openly and then swiftly gossiping behind each other’s backs. We derive pleasure from these exchanges, but they leave lasting, irreplaceable marks on our minds. Here, I offer an ode to nearly three years of wildlife exploration.
In my journey, I have wandered the forests alone, with various tour operators, a few government officials, a mentor, and countless friends. From showing a friend a tiger for the first time to witnessing a melanistic leopard, the wonder in our eyes remained constant. I learned the workings and flaws of the system, experienced trust and its breakdowns. This genre of photography has revealed many facets in the short time I have been involved. Though generalizations are unwise, the highs and lows have taught me much, fueling my passion.
I began by wandering the forest with a tour operator who forged temporary bonds of friendship. This led me to question the true meaning of friendship, often likening it to the “follow” and “unfollow” buttons on social media. These relationships thrived on mutual expectations but ultimately broke down over perceived breaches of trust. Despite my best intentions, I still ponder what I could have done differently.
Exploring these forests, I met local elites who, despite lacking the opportunities we had, possessed an admirable simplicity and directness. Their cleverness and insight offered a glimpse into a world city dwellers can scarcely imagine. For instance, a school teacher turned guide, or a forest guard studying under a single lamp to pass state exams and become the first government official in his family—each story is a testament to their resilience and aspirations.
The forest has given much to many, and I learned that what may seem trivial to one can be devastating to another. Drivers and guides, always alert and dedicated, can be deeply offended by the slightest dark humor. The ecosystem thrives on judgments and whispers, showing sympathy with a smirk for those who miss sightings.
From seasons of abundance to lean periods, the forest offers endless opportunities for photography. Friendships formed in the wild are often forgotten in the routine of daily life. The forest reveals human nature in all its forms, from loyalty to betrayal. But why the need for gossip and bonds? Perhaps it’s the serenity of nature that truly captivates me.
Graduating from college, I believed I had stopped learning until a friend introduced me to my mentor. Described as a Swiss Army knife with unused potential, I resumed my education. Photography, much like entrepreneurship, demands quick reflexes, awareness, and the ability to make and overcome mistakes—skills invaluable in life.
Naming fellow guides and drivers after birds or traits, sharing jokes, and connecting with them provides a glimpse into grassroots India. Despite our different opportunities, their aspirations for their children mirror our own. They work tirelessly to give their families the chances they missed, teaching me humility and patience.
Every trip to the forest brings new lessons, relationships, and reflections. These experiences, though personal, offer a window into my understanding and feelings, even if they might not resonate with everyone.
