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Capturing Wildlife Moments in India

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Many wildlife species in India are under tremendous threat from different sources, mainly from poaching, man-animal conflict, and deforestation. Their survival is dependent on strong laws and support from the Government, from the public, from NGOs and particularly from children who will, we hope, become aware of the threat to these endangered species and go on to support strongly the many projects working towards their survival. Fortunately, efforts are being made to rehabilitate many endangered animals like, for example the Tiger, Indian One-horned Rhinoceros, Barasingha, and Gharial. The Asiatic Lion, which adorns the national emblem, is only to be found in the Gir National Park in Gujarat. The central Indian Barasingha in Kanha National Park is the only species of its kind in the world. Some of the other globally important endangered species in India are the Gharial, Hangul, Snow Leopard, Lion-tailed Macaque, and the Gangetic River Dolphin.

The primary aim of this book is to create a greater awareness of the real danger to wildlife in India and to promote the preservation of that wildlife.

160 pages, Hardcover

First published May 15, 2015

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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
Profile Image for Anand Ganapathy.
230 reviews34 followers
April 15, 2024
Stunning wildlife photography - tigers , leopards , lions , elephants , monkeys ... across sanctuaries in the country
June 11, 2015

Welcome to the bewildering world of Indian wildlife moments.

Bestowed with 120 stunning photographs of Indian wildlife, the coffee table book ‘Capturing Wildlife Moments in India’ authored by Mr. Ashok Mahindra emancipates the knowledge about India’s eclectic collection of flora and fauna to its readers. It sensuously attracts the readers’ heart and acts as a wake-up call to save the wild treasures of India.

As appropriately stated in the foreword of the book by Asad R. Rahmani, the Director of Bombay Natural History Society, “When you see it, you will like it; when you like it, you will protect it.” - this book brings the jungle to the readers’ home.

Every image is accompanied by interesting and informative text. Many of us are well aware of the endangered status of Bengal tiger but the author reminds us of the critically endangered but highly neglected Gharial, the endangered Hoolock Gibbon and Wild Ass, the vulnerable Barasingha and the near threatened Malayan Giant Squirrel. These and many other species which are part of the IUCN Red List are clearly specified by the author.

The author also consciously and constantly strives to extend the significance of Indian forests beyond its ferocious big cats. He encourages visitors to look out for the diverse collection of trees adorning the forest, the small mammals, reptiles, amphibians and avians as well as the other awe-inspiring wonders which amuses jungle lovers and admirers such as the termite mound, the fire breakers or nests of weaver birds. Some amazing behavioural information regarding the animals are also provided in the book.

Every Indian state has a state bird or animal which often goes unnoticed. The author here illuminates us regarding the state animals of India. All of us aware of the fact that tiger is our national animal and lion is the state animal of Gujarat. However, did you know that the giant wild buffalo is the state animal of Chattisgarh and the Sarus Crane is the state bird of Uttar Pradesh? More such information is available in this book.

The vivid encounters of the author with the king of the jungle have also been cinematically described here by the author. Meet Zalim, Machli, Aakash and Ustad and read their unique and unusual stories some of which has even baffled wildlife experts.

For the avid wildlife traveller, the author meticulously enlists the wildlife hotspots, locations, UNESCO Natural World Heritage Sites and interesting places to stay in the heart of the wildlife.

There are also good photography tips in the book for the zealous wildlife photographers.

Capturing photographs of the wild requires immense amount of patience and skill which is displayed in the author’s work. The intense research and scintillating snaps renders the price of the book worthy of its value.

The author also pens down the ‘Thirteen Ways Forward’ where he provides thirteen useful directives that will help prevent wildlife crimes and spread awareness for wildlife conservation.

Considering the above facts, I believe that ‘Capturing Wildlife Moments of India’ has the power to mesmerize the young adults (the target group of the book) and motivate them to ruminate and act on the perilous state of affairs faced by India’s dwindling wildlife.

I would whole-heartedly recommend this book to not just the young readers but to all seeking a tryst with the Indian wildlife.
Profile Image for Jaideep Khanduja.
Author 3 books157 followers
June 11, 2015
http://pebbleinthestillwaters.blogspo...

Book Review: Capturing wildlife moments in India: Excellent Pictures Shot

Capturing Wildlife Moments In India by Ashok Mahindra promises to be a must have for people interested in exploring wildlife in India. It has total hundred and twenty engrossing photographs ranging from all kind of interesting animals and birds found in India. The amount of effort that has gone into visiting more than thirty parks and sanctuaries (and of course locations other than the regular ones) speaks volumes of praise in itself when you look at the photographs that have been taken with a high precision and quality.

The interesting book Capturing Wildlife Moments In India by Ashok Mahindra is being published by OUP (Oxford University Press) in collaboration with BNHS (Bombay Natural History Society). The book will not only be available on most of the online bookstores but also can be purchased from most of the prominently known book retail outlets across India. You can also make a purchase of this fabulous book from the BNHS official website. The price of the book is Rs. One Thousand Four Hundred and Fifty which is worth spending. It is a must to have for all nature lovers for their personal library collection.

The enthralling opening of the book begins with the National Animal of India – the Bengal Tiger which is an endangered species as per IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. This Bengal Tiger captured in the first picture is Ustad that is shown enjoying the cool waters in a pool on a hot summer day having a soaring temperature of forty-six degrees Celsius. The picture is taken in Ranthambhore National Park situated in Rajasthan. It is really a great initiative by Saevus Wildlife India to bring out this fabulous book full of lively and interesting pictures of animals and birds of India, in unique postures along with their details.

So is the wonderful journey of enchanting pictures in this fascinating book titled Capturing Wildlife Moments In India by Ashok Mahindra.

July 2, 2015
The first thing that strikes you as you pick up this book is the steely, if slightly contemptuous, eyes of Ustad (T-24), the largest dominant tiger of Ranthambhore, that has recently been declared a man-eater and relocated from the jungle. Ashok Mahindra, by a chance of fate, had chosen to keep this magnificent yet notorious beast as the cover page of his coffee table book.

The book is a riveting collection of the author-photographer’s best moments spent in the wild, right from the rolling dales of Valparai in the south to the tall elephant-grass strewn swamplands of Kaziranga in the north-eastern part of the country. He has rightfully dedicated the book to the young adults, beseeching them to take care of the threatened species before it is too late. His passion for wildlife is evident in the ‘Thirteen ways forward’, brought about by years of observing the ways of men and nature in India.

The photographs, taken during his various jaunts to wildlife sanctuaries across the country, tell stories that do not need words to describe. Each of these photographs come captioned with the location - where it was shot, the status of the animal/bird on the IUCN list and a brief note informing the reader about the particular characteristics and behaviour of the animal/bird. In some, the author has also given his personal experiences behind a shot.

Besides mammals and birds, the author has also included pictures of reptiles, frogs, insects and even that of a mudskipper, duly providing nuggets of information to the reader. The book is also interspersed with broad landscape and habitat shots, showcasing the beauty of the jungles.

Towards the end, the author has provided details of camera and techniques he had employed, for the benefit of those who are interested, as well as wildlife hotspots in the country and places to stay. I hope the book finds its place amongst the younger generation and fulfills the objective of Mr. Mahindra.
Profile Image for Aryan Sarath.
Author 5 books35 followers
June 11, 2015
This is a perfect book if you are a nature / wild life lover since this book has extensively covered the flora and fauna along with some excellent pics. I really felt this is worth the money spent as it has got some amazing pics and info which you would not have seen or heard about it elsewhere.

This would be a perfect gift as well to your family and friends as it enhances their knowledge and would not feel bad about being gifted.

This book can also be used to cite extra points by the kids who is studying in school/college to score those extra marks as well. If I was studying, I would have surely done that.

My best wishes to the author who has presented this amazing book to the world and wish to see him writing more in the coming days.

The book was sent to me FREE of cost as a part of Good Reads Book Review Program!
237 reviews17 followers
September 18, 2016
Dedicated to young adults by the author, in the hope that they, and through them their children will understand the importance of preserving our forests, rain forests, mangroves, woodlands, wetlands, swampy marshes and mudflats for posterity, ‘Capturing Wildlife Moments In India’ is a remarkable attempt to introduce the reader to the rich fauna and flora surrounding us. It is an attempt to bring the diverse and vibrant wildlife of India, to the masses through 120 photographic illustrations and short snippets covering wide range of birds and animals that have made India their home. These photographs clicked by the author during the course of his visits to over 30 parks,sanctuaries and other locations in India are eye-catching. The foreword by Mr. Asad R Rahmani, Director, Bombay Natural History Society and the ‘Thirteen Ways Forward’ by the author himself are worth pondering upon.

Other points worth noting about the book are-

PHOTOGRAPHS

A collection of

Superb 120 photographs clicked during the course of the Author’s travels across the length and breadth of the country are testimony to the author’s experience and acumen. They introduce us to not only the commonly known and recognized species of the animal kingdom but to also some lesser known ones, ones the ordinary citizen may never ever have come across.
Each photograph is a fine example of the author’s determination and dedication. To cite an example- clicking the leopard was no easy task for him. It took him 100+ safaris to finally sight this most elusive animal. However in the end his determination was rewarded and the proof is there before us in Page 12 of the book.
CONTENT

Brief but informative.
Addresses the concerns of the impact of rapid afforestation on wildlife and their habitat and ecology in general. It is a step forward to creating awareness among people of all ages to the threat faced by all forms of life on earth given man’s greed and penchant for urbanization at the cost of causing an imbalance in the already fragile ecology.
The book provides thirteen vital points which need to be adopted urgently to ensure proper preservation of wildlife. These points are indeed relevant and easy to follow if one does truly has the will to adopt them.
The book is not a sermon but a subtle attempt to nudge the masses to preserve the flora and fauna around us by bringing live the beauty that the earth has been graced with. It gives us an insight into the behavioral patterns and characteristics of some of the animals mentioned therein. E.g. – 1) The matriarchal system followed by the Asiatic elephants. Here the eldest female of the herd generally takes all major decisions. 2) How the mudskipper an amphibious fish, survives even when out of water for hours, just by breathing the oxygen stored in its skin and mouth. 3) The common kingfisher whacking its catch to death before consuming it so that it does not hurt its throat with its fins. Who says that men are more intelligent than the rest of God’s creation on earth? The pages of the book reveal the intelligence of the various species of animals and birds that reside here. One can’t help admiring them.
Then there are some fascinating mentions like- 1) the breeding pattern of the Malabar Pied Hornbills commonly sighted in Dandeli, Karnataka. Amazing how the male imprisons the female in her nest till the chicks hatch. Queer indeed are the ways of nature. 2) The chain of life in Corbett National Park in Uttarakhand where frogs feed on spiders and the snakes on the frogs only to be consumed later by the Crested Serpent Eagle a bird of prey that relishes the taste of snakes and lizards.
Some unusual stories like that of Zalim the male Bengal Tiger in the Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan who sired his two cubs after their mother died make interesting read. Unusual for tigers to do so but then aren’t exceptions a way of life?
The book is not all about animals, their special characteristics, habits, etc, but also about their preservation. It speaks about protecting their habitat and the plants and trees that provide them with the much needed nourishment in order to survive.
There is also some valuable information regarding the steps taken by the Central Government, various State Governments and Government Agencies to preserve some of the endangered species and ensure their rapid growth in numbers.
A bit of legend here and there as well as tiger tales is sure to interest the reader.
The IUCN Classification and status of species, details of Wildlife Hotspots & UNESCO Natural World Heritage Sites, information regarding interesting places to stay and details regarding camera and technique employed by the author to capture the wild in his camera lens as well as those ideal to click them perfectly, add value to the book.
THE VERDICT:

A book that not only documents threatened landscapes and species but much more, ‘Capturing wildlife moments in India’ is truly a Collector’s delight. It caters to people of all ages. While the photographs are capable of captivating even a kid, the pieces of information provided throughout the book and the concerns expressed by the author are enough to set the sensitive of all ages to think and act. Though meant to be just a coffee table book this one has the potential of becoming an interesting encyclopedia of sorts if only the author adds a little more information on the species, details of their habitat, food habits, other habits specific to them, etc.
Profile Image for Mahesh Sowani.
Author 8 books7 followers
June 21, 2015
http://maheshsowani.blogspot.in/2015/...
It is not easy to go into the wild. As everybody cannot go into the wild wildlife is brought for everyone through an illustrated book named Capturing Wildlife Moments in India. It contains 120 photographs showing the rich heritage and range of wildlife and its habitats in India. It enlists over 30 locations visited for taking pictures. It enlists Wildlife Hotspots and also suggests of interesting places to stay. The book also enumerates the camera techniques used for clicking the pictures.

It is indeed saddening to know that less than five percent of India's area is designated as protected for animals and birds. According to the author his endeavour as a photographer is to encourage people to care for threatened species before it is too late.

The pictures of wildlife must have been taken with lot of effort. The author has also included some pictures of trees and tribals as well. But what is interesting than the pictures is the information which accompanies them. So the author tells us that the elephants follow the matriarchal system. Honey intoxicates the Himalayan black bear. The Malabar Pied Hornbill male traps the female in her nest by walling up the nest. It narrates a heart touching story of how a male tiger raised his two cubs after the death of their mother. Interbreeding with domestic buffaloes has made the wild buffaloes endangered. Langurs are friends of deers and are the first to identify the predators and inform their friends. It is such nuggets of information that make the book unique and interesting. They clear overshadow the photographs.

The author also classifies the wildlife into vulnerable, endangered, critically endangered, near threatened categories. That means that the attractive animal posing for the camera may not survive for coming years and even become extinct. This feeling makes you restless and achieves the goal of the author to make the masses aware of the wildlife conservation.

The author's subjects of photography cover a wide range including lesser heard organisms like mudkipper and the omnipresent sparrow whose existence too is threatened. After a certain point the book becomes repetitive with the same tigers, elephants, crocodiles and storks. I wish the author would have avoided this repetition. However inspite of it given the dearth of Indian books in this segment, the book is highly recommended. This is a book you will not repent buying.
Profile Image for Deepak Nare.
37 reviews18 followers
June 11, 2015
Good photography does not restrict itself in just capturing the moment but to capture a real moment and present it as beautifully and vividly as one’s imagination. Capturing Wildlife Moments in India by Ashok Mahindra is a prime example of such presentation.

This coffee-table book contains over 100 photos of animals - from Bengal Tiger to Lion-tailed Macaque, from Nilgai to Hoolock Gibbon and birds – from Black-capped Kingfisher to Painted Stork, from Blue Jay to Pallas’ Fish-eagle collected from over 30 locations of Assam, Goa, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and many other.


Along with animal’s common name, location and their importance in particular state all the photographs also captions IUCN status of the species. The equipments and photographic technology used is also mentioned along in some tricky photographs which is beyond my inept understanding but might be quite useful to budding photographers.

Apart from the photographs, the book also features wildlife hotspots, interest places to stay and details about concession packages for school visits; helping in expanding the tourism and thus the growth and preservation of wildlife. Author understands the concern that if nothing is done to preserve and defend the wildlife there will be a time when these animals can be seen only in such books. He has also pointed out what threats some species are facing and firmly believes that inspiring young adults of our country can make a great change in present scenario and give India’s wildlife a future. Overall it is a good book created for a greater cause.


Photography, like every other art, should be unburdened with the concern of how much trouble the artist went through or what he/she is trying to say or even how the art looks like; all that matters is how it makes you feel. If you have affection towards wildlife or nature at its best, only then this book will be a justifiable recommendation for you. In this age where millions of pictures are available on the internet just a few clicks away and ebooks are making coffee-table books obsolete, such books acts only as a display artifact unless you are a passionate collector.

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1 review
June 11, 2015
I'm a Nature lover, flora though and this book opened up my world to wildlife photography. Through 120 photographs in this book, Ashok has shown the rich heritage and range of wildlife and its habitats in India.

I love the brief yet touching dedication - the author dedicates the book to the young & through them, hopefully, to their posterity - to appreciate that without nature's multifarious portfolio of ecosystems & creations, nothing pretty much would exist! And that's why we ought to respect & preserve them. A message well conveyed.

Each specie photographed is comprehensively explained including its current habitat and status.

The book is not only an ode to nature, as it were, but is a practical handbook. It has interesting chapters, ranging from the author's perspective, thirteen ways forward (to appreciate, conserve & engage with wildlife habitats) to camera angle & technique (this, for someone like me who is basically interested in photography but has never done wildlife photography, is a boon) as well as chapters dedicated to wildlife hotspots & interesting places to stay.

I quite appreciate how the book indicates the continuing threat to wildlife in India and sets out how it could be more effectively preserved. The book will be of particular interest to those involved in conservation, wildlife photography, and wildlife tourism.
June 12, 2015
Through the book, author tries to create awareness of real danger to wildlife from different sources, mainly poaching, man-animal conflict and deforestation. The photographs accompany the location information, along with camera settings and photography techniques. Author relates some of the species to Indian God and Goddess and legends. He also links to myths and tribal rituals which creates the fear of endanger to certain species. Its just not about wild, but also the forest environment, be it Sal trees of Kanha or roots of Sundarbans mangrove trees, the author showcases the beauty of the forests as well. I liked the way the author narrates the story behind the photographs. The book introduced me to many lesser known creatures and sanctuaries, which I hadn't heard of, and interesting facts about certain creatures. The book also sums up the wildlife hotspots and interesting places to stay to explore the wild, which helps wildlife photographers and travellers to plan their visit. As a wildlife enthusiast and travel blogger, I would recommend to add this book to your shelf.
Check out the full review on my Blog: http://meghanahassan.blogspot.in/2015...
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June 19, 2015
This book is a sheer treat to one's eyes. Capturing Wildlife Moments in India contains 120 photographs of animals and birds of India, photographed from visits to over 30 parks,sanctuaries and other locations.

The photographer has come up with this book because he wants to use the power of photography to reach the young adults and inspire them to preserve what is left in the rich biodiversity in India. The beautiful but endangered species needs to be conserved in their natural habitat. And this book has the photos which bring out the innocence of this magnificent wildlife species which are forced to live in the fragile ecosystem.

Each photo is this book will make the reader see how diverse we are, as a country, in wildlife. The finesse of each and every photograph tells about the photographer's dedication to get the perfect click. Some pictures of certain animals would really make the readers think that if these species even exist in India.

Find the complete review here : http://www.sushmitamalakar.com/2015/0...
166 reviews12 followers
June 14, 2015
The book acts as a quick guide and a quick chronicle on places to visit in India – places where you can relax, and enjoy being one with nature, places where you can experience the full beauty of nature; places which are both famous, and not quite so famous. It isn’t a guide on what you can find in each place – this is not a tourist guide; it is more of a travelogue, an experiential and highly engaging travelogue on the wildlife circuit of India.

This is a book you can get lost in, and forget about everything; this is a book which you can just dissolve into; this is a book you can read again and again and then again; and each reading is bound to transport you into a differing reality, an engaging memory, an unfulfilled desire or a raging ambition. This is a book to make you pause in wonder at Mother Nature, and sigh in deep and heartfelt melancholy regret at the ugliness of the modern concrete jungle!
2 reviews1 follower
May 21, 2015

The author has done yeoman service in visiting a very large number of wildlife sanctuaries in the country and has tried to include as many species in the book. Having done so he has also described the species and enables the reader/viewer to get a first hand account of nature's creation. This will help raise the level of awareness of the dire need for conservation of the environment and wildlife. Who would have ever thought that a professional accountant who has for long resisted the desire of clients to make 2 and 2 equal what they wish! would turn to wildlife photographs in such a dedicated and professional manner. compliments on the book and the work of the author. I strongly recommend it for personal reading/viewing and feel it should be a MUST HAVE for libraries of educational institutions.
Profile Image for Keyur Seta.
4 reviews4 followers
June 11, 2015
The main aim of Wildlife Photographers is to make the reader experience a wild safari inside a jungle while sitting miles away. Their task is difficult than video shooters due to the reliance only on still pictures. Ashok Mahindra’s e-book ‘Capturing Wildlife Moments In India’ achieves this aim hands down. This is not the only achievement of the book though.

The book is a treat not only for wildlife lovers but also for city dwellers trapped in concrete jungles. The well-shot and well thought pictures transport you to the raw interiors of forests. But, as mentioned by Mahindra, wildlife is not only about wild animals. Therefore, he has also given importance to other aspects of jungles. Other impressive feature is the trivia about some species and the back story behind the capturing of a number of pictures.
June 18, 2015
Go on turning pages and look at natural photoes and enjoy. While I was doing so, something caught my special attention on page 53: a wild boar or wild pig. It is a male boar with tuskers - just look behind his ear – there is a cut on the skin. One can see the cut had been caused by a spear (ballum) as somebody had tried to hunt down the boar and the anmial escaped. Like this every photo has a distinct character. Being Ashok Mahindra's long standing friend for years, I had visited some forests with him and I have observed how dedicated a naturalist and able wildlife photographer he is. The book will give young parents a good opportunity to look at wildlife pictures with their children and to enjoy answering many questions from children. The book is a collector's item. You are a nature lover? – I suggest get a copy and enjoy!
Profile Image for Shalini (kohleyedreads).
140 reviews81 followers
June 8, 2015
I’m an animal person. Needless to say, I love visiting the zoos and national parks. So, when Saevus got in touch with me about a book review of “Capturing Wildlife Moments in India” by Ashok Mahindra of The Hem Chand Mahindra Foundation, my joy knew no bounds. As expected of a coffee table book, it was a treat to the eyes. Packed with a visual treat of amazing photographs of birds and animals, it also provides an insight to many of the endangered species. The author has beautifully captured over thirty locations, showcasing the rich heritage and wildlife of India.

Read the full review here: https://taleoftwotomatoes.wordpress.c...
3 reviews1 follower
June 14, 2015
A small book of 85 pages with some 100+ pictures showcases the wildlife diversity in India. The book highlights the rich range of wildlife and its habitats in India. The book also indicates the continuing threat to wildlife in India and sets out how it could be more effectively preserved. The book lists the National Parks and Sanctuaries visited (over 30), the Wildlife Hotspots and interesting places to stay. However, besides giving a small intro about the wildlife specie in the different photographs, the book certainly makes you excited enough to have a more closer look at the wildlife destinations in the country.
Profile Image for Romila.
Author 63 books46 followers
June 11, 2015
The book starts with a tribute to animals which clearly shows us how the author cares for the wildlife and I think we all must do. The animals, birds, and the jungles are precious and it is our responsibility to protect rather than destroy them. They are part of this cosmos and are likewise significant just like we humans are. I have never had a chance to go through a photography book earlier, all I thought was these coffee table books are boring but after this I look forward to explore more photography books.
Profile Image for Vibhuti Bhandarkar.
Author 5 books13 followers
June 16, 2015
Ustad! Yes, he is the Bengal Tiger rightfully adorning the cover of the book. The skillfully shot picture of the fierce animal enjoying his moment of royal leisure,has given me a beautiful mental picture of the kind of brilliant photography I can expect in the book.

The note that accompanies this picture clicked at Ranthambhore National Park, Rajasthan also makes for an interesting read.

Continue reading the review at
http://klishmaklaver.blogspot.in/2015...
1 review
June 28, 2015
For a nature lover, seeing wildlife is complete bliss and taking the effort to compile them and add substantial information about their status, behavior, distribution, threats is itself an accomplishment worth accolades.

Overall, a good coffee table book to read through that conveys a very strong message and hopes to inspire the young Indian generation in conserving what is left of the natural resources.
Profile Image for Cifar.
Author 2 books3 followers
June 12, 2015
The book captures the wildlife beauty in India with dedication and quality. This book is a must for all those parents who wants to introduce their children to nature and to inculcate in them the interest about wildlife. Ashok Mahindra's work is superb. Read my full review of the book :
Profile Image for ALOP - A Lot of Pages.
80 reviews7 followers
October 12, 2015
Link to the Book Review at ALOP

Nikhimenon rates this 4.5 on 5 stars and says, "this book is not only about beautiful pictures and wild animals,it also meticulously lists out interesting places to check out and also gives directions regarding where to stay in case you are visiting those places."

1 review
June 11, 2015
Beautifully captured pictures by Ashok Mahindra Sir. Loved the outline of the book, and every picture has a story beneath!
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