Deepawali celebrations and Firecrackers

भारतीय संस्कृति और सनातन धर्म में हर जीव को महत्वपूर्ण माना गया है। हमारे यहां तो नदी को भी मां मानते है और विभिन्न प्राकृतिक संसाधनों को भी किसी न किसी रूप से महत्व दिया जाता है। गीता जी में श्री कृष्ण ने कहा है कि वे हर कण में है तथा प्रकृति उनका ही रूप है इसका मतलब उसको नुकसान पहुंचाना सीधे भगवान को नुकसान पहुंचाने के समान है। कर्म के लिए श्री कृष्ण ने कहां है कि वह हर कार्य जो हरेक के भले को ध्यान में रख कर किया जाता है को ही कर्म माना जाता है। निषिद्ध कर्म करना ही विकर्म है और ये निषिद्ध कर्म क्या है? असत्य, कपट, हिंसा इत्यादि पर आधारित कर्मों को निषिद्ध माना गया है। मेरी जानकारी के अनुसार अन्य धर्मों मुख्यत: इस्लाम या ईसाइयों में कर्म का यह सिद्धान्त नहीं माना जाता, वे अन्य जीवों और प्रकृति को केवल उपभोग की वस्तु मानते है।

इतिहासकारों के अनुसार पटाखे भारत में इस्लामीक आक्रांताओं द्वारा लाये गए थे हालांकि कई लोग यह कहते है कि इसका जिक्र चाणक्य ने किया है लेकिन ऐसा नहीं है। कई जगह श्री राम द्वारा आग्नेय अस्त्रों के उपयोग को भी पटाखों से जोड़ा जाता है पर मेरे मत से वे देवीय अस्त्र थे न की साधारण पटाखे। समय के साथ भारतीय संस्कृति में मुख्य रूप से दीपावली में इसका उपयोग किया जाने लगा। शायद उस वक्त किसी का ध्यान इस तरफ नहीं गया कि पटाखों से पर्यावरण और अन्य जीवों पर क्या असर पड़ रहा है। या संभव है कि इसका उपयोग बहुत कम होता था इसलिए नुकसान समझ ही नहीं आया। इसी प्रकार से सुनने में आया था कि पितृ पक्ष के वक्त जो हमारे पितृ गण आते है वे कार्तिक कृष्ण अमावस्या  के दिन वापस अपने अपने लोक लौट जाते है और उन्हें अंधेरी रात में समस्या नहीं हो इसलिए पटाखे जलाए जाते है। क्या विदेशी आक्रांताओं के द्वारा पटाखे लाने के पूर्व हम दीपावली नहीं मनाते थे या हमारे कई पितृगण यहीं भटकते रह जाते थे?

मुस्लिम या अन्य विदेशी आक्रमणकारियों द्वारा पटाखों का उपयोग किया जाता था लेकिन उनकी संस्कृति में क्योंकि अन्य जीवों को कोई महत्व भारतीय संस्कृति और धर्म के समान नहीं दिया जाता इसलिए उनको कोई फर्क नहीं पड़ा और न ही वे इस विषय पर सोचेंगे। हां, हम सनातनियों के लिए यह हमारे धर्म और संस्कृति से हमें दूर जरूर कर रहा है क्योंकि इसके कारण हम पूरी पृथ्वी को नुकसान पहुंचा रहे है जो हमारे "वसुधैव कुटुम्बकम्" तथा अहिंसा के सिद्धांत के बिल्कुल विपरीत है।

मेरा विचार है कि केवल वे ही पटाखों का उपयोग करेंगे जो सनातन के विरुद्ध है और अन्य धर्मों को सनातन से उच्च मानते है। जैसे हमारे द्वारा बाल विवाह की परम्परा को खत्म किया गया उसी तरह इस धर्म विपरीत कार्य को भी बंद करना चाहिए। जब दीपावली में पटाखों के खिलाफ लिखा जाता है तो लोगों को दूसरे धर्म दिखने लगते है, उनकी वे रीतियां जिनको हम कुरीति मानते है दिखने लगते है जैसे जीवों को मारना। सबसे हास्यास्पद है उनका कहना अगर दूसरे धर्म वाले कर सकते है तो हम क्यों नहीं या क्या सारे संसार का ठेका हमने ले रखा है।  क्या "वसुधैव कुटुम्बकम्" सनातन का हिस्सा है या अन्य धर्मों का? क्या श्री गीता जी में भगवान कृष्ण ने जो कहां वह सनातन का हिस्सा है या अन्य धर्म से संबंधित? अगर आपको अन्य धर्मों के अनुसार जीव हत्या और पर्यावरण / पृथ्वी को नुकसान पहुंचाना है तो उसी धर्म को अपना लो । कई बार देखा की कई संत महात्मा और प्रवचनकर्ता भी पटाखों को जलाने को ले कर बोलते है की यह सनातन विरोधी गतिविधि नहीं है, उनसे मेरा सादर अनुरोध है की कृपया अपने वक्तव्य को वापस लें और लोगों को सनातन के पथ से विमुख होने से बचाएं। मैंने पिछले करीब 20 वर्षों से पटाखे जलाना और प्लास्टिक की पन्नियों का उपयोग छोड़ दिया है और सभी से अनुरोध है कृपया यह अकर्म छोड़ देवें और सत्य सनातन को अपनाए। 

अभिनव अरोरा – भक्त या ...........

 

आजकल अभिनव अरोरा नाम के एक १० वर्ष के बालक के पीछे कई न्यूज चैनल और यू ट्यूब के ब्लोगर पड़े हुए है. कुछ समय पूर्व तक इस बालक को सभी जगह सराहा जा रहा था, उसकी फोटो और वीडियो कई बड़े – बड़े संतों और प्रवचनकर्ताओं के साथ दिखने को मिल जाती थी. फिर एक यू ट्यूब चैनल ने उसके बारे में यह डाला की वह गलत है और उसका उपयोग उसके पिता और माता के द्वारा पैसे कमाने हेतु किया जा रहा है. बस, क्या था सभी उस बालक को झूठा और मक्कार घोषित करने में लग गए. आज ही देख रहा था एक न्यूज चैनल में बड़े बड़े पंडित उससे श्लोक और शास्त्रों के बारे में पूछने में लगे थे. वह बार - बार कह रहा था की मैं तो केवल एक भक्त हूँ कोई प्रकांड पंडित नहीं लेकिन कोई उसकी बात सुनने को तैयार नहीं था. एक महोदय ने तो यहाँ तक कह दिया की अगर उसको इतनी भक्ति है तो सब छोड़ के किसी आश्रम में रहने चले जाना चाहिए. 

मैं यह नहीं कह रहा हूँ की वह बालक गलत है या सही है या उसके माँ बाप उसका गलत उपयोग कर रहे है पर मेरा केवल एक सवाल है क्या किसी में भी भक्ति उम्र देख के आती है, अगर हाँ तो प्रहलाद की इतनी छोटी उम्र में भी भगवान् नारायण उसके लिए अवतार क्यों ले लिए? क्या भक्ति के लिए वेद पुराण शास्त्रों का ज्ञान होना जरूरी है अगर हाँ तो मीरा और जाने ही कितने भक्त हुए है उनका क्या वे तो शास्त्रों के नहीं केवल प्रभु के प्रेम की ज्ञाता थी. अगर आज उसके पिता और माता उसकी भक्ति का गलत उपयोग कर रहे है तो क्या इसमें गलती उस बच्चे की है? एक बहुत नामी संत ने कहाँ वह तो मुर्ख है अगर वह सोचता है की प्रभु उसके साथ भोजन करते है. एक बच्चे से ज्यादा साफ किसी का दिल और दिमाग नहीं होता है और हम भी तो कहते है बच्चों में ही भगवान् रहते है. जब हम यह कहते है तो उसका कारण क्या होता है, यही न की उनका दिल और दिमाग बिलकुल साफ होता है.

एक कहानी याद आती है, एक महिला अपनी बहु के पास अपने ठाकुर जी छोड़ के कहीं बाहर गई और बोल के गई की ठाकुर जी का ख्याल रखना, समय पर भोजन प्रसादी करते रहना. जब कुछ समय बाद सास वापस आई तो पता चला जब बहु भोजन परोसती है तो ठाकुर जी आ के उसके हाथ का भोजन पाते है. वह बहु इतनी सीधी थी की जब ठाकुर जी के समक्ष भोजन पधराती और ठाकुर जी भोजन पाने नहीं आये तो उसने रो रो के बुरा हाल कर लिया की वे सास के हाथ से तो भोजन लेते है उसके हाथ से क्यों नहीं ले रहे और जब ठाकुर जी ने देखा वह दिल की बिलकुल साफ़ है तो आ के उसके हाथ से भोजन पाने लगे. जो सास इतने सालों से भोग लगा रही थी उसके हाथ से तो कभी नहीं पाए. यह कहानी बताती है की अगर हमारा दिल साफ़ है तो प्रभु हमारे हाथ से भोजन भी लेंगे और हमसे बात भी करेंगे. और अगर संत समाज यह कहता है की ऐसा नहीं हो सकता, ये तभी संभव है जब आप वेद पुराण शास्त्रों के ज्ञाता हो तो भक्ति मार्ग की ये सब कहानियां हमें मिटा देनी चाहिए.

मै यह नहीं कह सकता की वह बालक सही है या नहीं या उसके माता पिता सही है या नहीं लेकिन इस प्रकार से किसी का मजाक बनाना सर्वथा गलत है और नहीं किया जाना चाहिए. अभिनव को मैं केवल इतना बोलना चाहता हूँ की अगर तुम सही हो तो चिंता नहीं करना प्रभु हमेशा भक्त का ही साथ देते है हाँ वे कभी कभी परीक्षा जरुर लेते है और इसमें पास होना जरूरी है बस. 

इति शुभ:

 

 

 

 

Photographing Foxes - A guide to take best photographs

The Bengal fox (Vulpes bengalensis) also known as Indian Fox are widespread all over the country but seldom seen due to their shy nature. Seldom seen so rarely photographed and very less is known about them. I have been photographing Foxes for some time now. I wanted to try night photography as well which would have given me a better chances to understand the ecology and habits of these beautiful animals. With all preparations done and equipment's ready I got stuck due to Covid situation. 

Still I have photographed them many times and here is a guide to photograph them without disturbing them, in most ethical way. Remember, foxes are very important for our farms and help by controlling population of rodents and other pests. 

Something about Foxes: They are mostly nocturnal but, late evenings and early mornings are also good time to photograph them. Have seen them in pairs mostly. They mate around November and December. Young once ore born around Jan / Feb with a gestation period of 7 to 8 weeks. They are omnivorous but mainly eat rodents and birds. Have seen same pair using same den for consecutive years. 

Fox Den: Look out for Fox dens, they use burrows or use once made by others mostly in and around agricultural fields, grasslands or semi-arid regions. Check for any activities especially in evenings or at night. Foxes have multiple entry / exits to their den so keep that in mind. I have seen one entering from a hole and coming out from another which was almost 100 meters away. Best way to understand if a den is occupied is to look for pug marks or scats. 

Prepare a hide: Prepare a good hide in safe distance and preferably on ground level. If they do not see you they do not feel threatened and give you good chances to photograph them. Hide should be such that you can sit on ground to get good eye level shots. Remember Foxes are very small so if you are on height you will not get good photographs. And, most important is never sit in the open, it will disturb them and if female nursing kittens feels threatened she may not come on time which is detrimental for the young once survival. I use a camping tent as hide as it is large and comfortable as well as has window on four sides to take photographs. 

Understand their movement: As per my experience Foxes normally move around late evening and are most active at night. If Female is rearing kittens she will normally come to feed them at almost same time and mostly will use same route. She will scan the surrounding before approaching the den. Once you understand their movement it will be easy to set up hide at right location. 

Keep lighting in mind: I use natural lighting only to photograph wildlife and suggest not to use flash as it may disturb the kittens and parents. Best is to set your hide in such a way that you get proper lighting. 

Background: Check for uncluttered background. Although it is not possible to get good background always but do not disturb the area just to take a good photograph as this can be harmful for the fox family. 

Kittens playing undisturbed and meeting mother after a long wait are times when you can get some excellent photographs. Remember, mother comes unannounced so keep tight watch. Once kittens are a couple of months old they will come out of their hiding place and wait for mother. This is also the time when they play and give you some good photographs. It is simply breathtaking to see the young once playing and especially when they welcome their mother. 

Taking wildlife photograph is both time consuming and frustrating at times but the result takes away all your tiredness and can help in spreading awareness and better understanding of our wildlife. Basically it is all about good preparedness, understanding of your subject and your practical knowledge of fieldcraft which can help you get good photographs. 

Ethical photography: Last but not the least, always keep safety of your subject on forefront and not that one photograph which you feel can be rewarding. Never disturb your subject or its vicinity and never try to lure them out for that one shot. 

Camping essentials - What you need to carry when going outdoors

Planning a camping trip, confused as to what to pack for your adventure? Here is a list to guide you all the way through. 

Camping has caught up very fast being one of the most adventurous holiday experiences. When planning a camping trip one thing we always have in mind is as to what we need to pack. Here we are providing a list of essentials you should not forget to make your trip a great success and memorable one. 

This checklist has been especially made keeping camping in forested areas in mind but can be used in all kind of camping trip be it backpacking, hiking or any outdoor adventure trip. Remember, carry only the best quality items as at most camping destinations you will not get a chance to purchase or replace anything. 

Prepare a list of all things needed for your camping trip with help of this guide. It is always good to prepare everything in advance, understand your equipment well beforehand. 

1. Camping tent

Most important thing you need is a good camping tent. If you are travelling to a place with extreme climatic conditions do keep that in mind and purchase a good tent which can with stand heavy rain, cold or windy situations, should be easy to set up, light weight and ventilated.   

2. Sleeping gear 

You need a good night’s sleep so your sleeping gear should be very comfy. In winters it is best to carry sleeping bags which can keep you warm, should be water resistant and comfortable. In summers you can just use sleeping bag liners which are easy to carry and use vey less packing space. You can also carry a light blanket. 

3. Camping Roll Mat

Carry a roll mat which is light weight and comfortable. At times you may have to pitch your tent on hard surface. These will keep you comfortable as well as work as insulation in cold winters.  

4. Lighting

We recommend you carry a good torch as well as camping lantern. A head lamp is a very good option. Do check for the battery life. 

5. Cooking Gear

No matter where you are or where you go, certainly good, tasty food is very essential to keep you healthy and going. Pack strong light cooking gear, a camping stove, cooking gas, cooking pots, chopping knife, cutlery set, bowls / plates and mugs. Do carry a lighter / flint stick to start camp fire. 

Take a good storage box and zip liners to keep your food safe. We suggest vegetarian food if you are going for a long trip as they are easy to keep safe and last long. Also, carry enough water and juice. 

6. Camping Electronic Gear

An action camera and a DSLR are sure essentials when we talk about any holiday as photography help us in keeping our memories. A cell phone with GPS and good battery life, a power bank preferably solar one, rechargeable batteries, a GPS if you are going to off the beaten track destination, chargers are few things you should not miss in any conditions. Keep a portable solar battery charging kit if you are going out for a long trip. 

7. Survival / Safety kit

Although it sounds unnecessary but you should always carry a survival kit and survival hand book when travelling outdoors especially if you are visiting forested / wilderness area. A camping knife, compass, map, emergency whistle, emergency blanket, sewing kit, Dry / zip lock bags, torch / head torch, Duck tape, water bottle and water purifier are some important things you should always have when going outdoors. If you are planning to go to a wilderness area it is always advisable to carry some good safety equipment like a knife and pepper spray. Emergency survival kit and life jacket are a good addition always.   

8. Medical Essentials 

Do carry you medical details and medicines along with some basic medical needs especially insect / mosquito repellant. Some basic medicines for aches and pains, scratches, insect stings, sun screen, rehydrating salts are a must when going outdoors. Also, do keep a first aid kit. 

8. Personal Items

Some personal gear like cloths, travel towel, books, entertainment or activity material and like should be packed. A Poncho / umbrella should be kept if it’s rainy season. If you have space you can carry foldable table and chair as well. 

List can be expanded as per your own experience or guidance from die hard camping travelers. But, we are sure above will be good enough and make your holiday experience a memorable one. At many destinations you have especially developed camping sites; if you are using one do check as to what all is available since it will enable you to carry less.

Enjoy Camping!!! 

Camping at Kanha national park

Camping in the buffer forest of Kanha National Park

Camping – just the word itself excites most nature lovers and adventurous travelers. Spending time outdoors in the lap of nature in a small camping tent is one recreational activity which has caught up with youth of all socioeconomic classes. Today many sites have been especially developed for camping enthusiasts and accommodate both recreational and corporate guests.

Madhya Pradesh in Central India is one state which has on offer many such beautiful sites where you can do outdoor camping. In recent years the Madhya Pradesh State Tourism Board has been promoting these sites which have been especially developed for campers and have all required amenities. At many places they are providing camping sites adjacent to private resorts or at their own facilities so that campers can stay and enjoy their camping trips. This has caught up with serious campers as well as business organizations that are using these sites for team building activities and leisure.

With perfect mix of wilderness and comfort these sites have been developed at destinations with natural heritage like mountains, rivers, forests and water bodies. They offer an ideal place to relax and indulge in activities giving a memorable experience which will call you back again and again.  

One such camping site has been developed at Kanha National Park which is being managed by Kanha Village Eco Resort, famous for its authentic mud houses and tribal village ambiance. Looking over dense forest at one side it is a great place to relax and rejuvenate. Away from the noise and pollution of city you can just relax or do adventure activities which include jungle safari, nature walks, medicinal plants identification walks, village visit, ethnic village food, cycling, star gazing, camp fire and host of other games which will keep you indulged full time. Corporate organizations are welcome to stay in mud houses or tents and special team building activities can be planned which will make your holiday at Kanha enjoyable and educational.

Just imagine staying in a camping tent adjacent to forest which has Tiger, Leopard, Deer, Jackal, Fox and many other wild animals. Still, you are safe since site is secured and a constant watch is kept. You want to cook your own food or do Barbeque, no issues; they have a small kitchen in the camping site. You can just sit around the camp fire and enjoy your dinner listening to nature which is so peaceful. You can carry your own tent or ask them for one available on rent. You can also ask for a package which will include activities and food.

So, what is the adventure enthusiast in you waiting for?

Kanha National Park - a perfect destination for Corporate Team Building exercises

 

Team building activities have been promoted by many management gurus and rightly so, they are fun events which bring all employees together and create a bonding which is very helpful in progress of any organization. In today’s world when we face competition everywhere what can be the best strategy to move on, certainly the whole office, each and every staff member has to work as a team. Learning is a process that is continuous and we should never think that once our education is complete we have mastered everything. One thing which can help us the most is working as a team and this can be learnt with help of small activities.

Truthfulness, right attitude, smart working are just some other important aspects which can help us in moving ahead in our life with positivity. Here are some benefits of team building activities:

1. Communication

Team building exercises helps in better communication between departments and staff which helps them in completing tasks and solve problems in better way. It relaxes the working atmosphere, improves communication and synchronization which is very vital for any business. 

2. Productivity

A relaxed atmosphere and better communication means better productivity at all levels since duplication of work is reduced and help is always available from all.

3. Improved Morale

Better communication and synchronization of work breaks many barriers making everyone more enthusiastic thereby improving morale in the office.

4. Motivation

Once a bonding develops motivation and confidence improves ensuing better results which is good for everyone’s development.

5. Leadership Qualities

One of the biggest advantage is management can identify leaders and positive employees which can help them in promoting right people which is very important for development of any organization.

6. Creativity

In team building exercises people show their creativity and take initiative as well as find solutions which can have an amazing effect on the whole office and its working.

7. Increase in Confidence

When all the staff members know that they are a team, this increases confidence and helps them in better completion of tasks thereby leading to successful results.

8. Superior Mental Strength

When all employees know that they have full backing and support of all other staff members, this reduces stress which improves mental health and boosts your working and the effect is - better results. 

9. Responsibility 

Team building exercises makes everyone feel responsible, a key to success of any business.

10. Trust

When you know that the whole organization works as a group it improves trust between everyone which leads to better teamwork and improved work ethics.

11. Respect

Respect is one thing we all desire and this is one of the most valuable thing any employee gets when his creativity and other skills are acknowledged. 

12. Value and Vision

Team building can help us in better understanding of our organizations value and vision which further motivates the workforce and increases the productivity.

What can be better place than Kanha National Park where you can sit in the lap of nature away from noise and pollution of city and enjoy some nice fun filled moment with your staff members? Kanha Village Eco Resort can plan a perfect get to gather for your organization and incorporate some nice team building activities which will help your establishment grow. 

Here you can either stay in mud houses or camping tents as per your choice. Along with activities you can do jungle safari to spot tiger and other free roaming wildlife of Kanha.  

Naina - The one with beautiful eyes

Kanha national park is one of the best place to spot tigers and other wildlife. Floras and fauna of Kanha is second to none. Most tourists visit Kanha to spot tigers and one of the rarest deer species - Hard ground Swamp deer, commonly known as Barasingha, which is endemic to these forests.

Certainly spotting a tiger in the wild is an experience in itself but think how it would be when you get to spot tigress with small, cuddly cubs. Yes, that is the most memorable, lifetime experience. Here are a few photographs of one of the most beautiful tigress of Kanha - Naina also known as Link 8 female and T 76. Here T 76 is the name given by forest department for her identification and Link 8 is the area she normally frequents.

Naina - also known as T 76 and Link 8 Female

Naina is a very bold tigress and can be spotted lazing around in grass or walking on the road. We had been fortunate enough to have seen her a few times. Once she gave a sudden appearance and came on road, calling her cubs. We were with her for almost 1.5 Km's.

Naina - on a walk 

Naina is a first time mother and a very careful one. Although her cubs are around 4 - 5 months now but she rarely comes out with them. In last few months she has given an appearance with her cubs only a couple of times and we were fortunate enough to have seen her with all 4 cubs on one such occasion.

One of Naina's cub

She has Neelam on one side and Mindidadar female on other and both of them have cubs. A few male tigers also roam and overlap her territory. Keeping this in mind she keeps her cubs in safe place and she will have to continue this for another 2 years and wait till her cubs are grown up and ready to face the world.

Portrait shot of Naina - T 76. 

Naina or T 76 it seems will be able to raise her cubs well if she remains careful and we hope we will be able to see the young once getting bigger and crafting out their own territory in some time.

Photo credit: All photographs have been clicked by Navneet Maheshwari, Owner Kanha Village Eco Resort. 

Tigress with small cubs at Kanha National Park

At times nature amazes us, we still need to learn a lot about nature and wildlife. In a rare and spectacular sighting in April 2018 we were amazed to spot a tigress with small cubs.

Yes spotting tigress with cubs is not rare but what made this one of the rarest sighting is that here cubs are very small, may be around 5 - 6 weeks old. Normally we get to spot tigress with cubs when the young once are 3 - 6 months old.

It was almost 9 AM and we were not sure of what to do since safari excursion time was coming to an end as we have to reach exit by 11 AM. From the point where we were waiting to hear any sign of predator movement it would have taken us an hour to exit well within the permissible time limit. Another safari vehicle crossed us and told that one tigress had crossed the road with small cubs from a place near Minkur nallah area.

We discussed and decided to try to spot her although chances were not very good. Choti Maada or T31 has very small cubs. We were not expecting her to bring the cubs out again since tigers and very protective of young once. But, with the jungle very silent and no other option as well as time restraint we decided to give it a chance.

When we reached there were a few other vehicles also waiting and trying to understand where the tigress is. It was all of sudden and things unfolded in a manner we never expected. As we approached the area and were just parking our vehicle that suddenly the tigress was seen coming towards one other vehicle. She was coming out of very dense foliage and we could spot her only when she was almost on us.

This vehicle was in line of her movement so the only option was to ask them to move but there was no space. Our driver had presence of mind, he removed his vehicle from the road and asked the other driver to back his vehicle. He immediately took our place and we gave enough space to the tigress. And, within next few seconds she was out on road, alone though. She came out and just sat on road.

With tiger so near and knowing that she is a mother of small cubs we had to restrain ourselves from moving the vehicle least it disturbs her. And, that was a very good decision, within a few seconds one cub came out. He went on to his mother who was sitting on road. All the tourists were asked to sit down and watch as cubs were near by and any movement could have been taken as a threat making the things ugly.

Rest, what happened can be seen in the video attached herewith for all to see one of the rarest sighting at Kanha National Park. We thank Mr Indranil Bhattacharya ji who was staying with us at Kanha Village Eco Resort for giving us this video to share.

That's Kanha where we respect our wildlife and nature.

M1 - The New King in Making in Kanha

                M1 - The New King in Making

Kanha tiger reserve has almost 90+ Tigers with Munna (CAT) at the forefront being the most famous tiger of all in present times. Tigers come and go, some are able to craft their territory within the forests of Kanha and some have to look for safe home elsewhere.

Cubs of T8 - Mundidadar female, Jan 2017

T 8 also known as Mundidadar female had 4 cubs, all male who have spread over different areas of Kanha after leaving their mother. Of these 2 are often sighted in tourism area and 2 rarely. I had seen them with their mother last season on 5th of January 2017. It was one of the best sighting for me that season. This year T8 (Mundidadar) has rarely been sighted and we are expecting she has given another litter.

Cubs of T 8, playing, Jan 2018

This season I could spot M1, one of the 4 cubs of T8 on couple of occasions and here are a couple of photographs for all to see and enjoy. He is a bold but elusive male, remains around when seen, but is rarely spotted.

M1, the bold one

We are expecting him to settle down somewhere within the core area itself but he has severe competition. Only time will tell if he is strong enough to carve out a territory for himself or is thrown out by other more experienced tigers.

M1, cub of T8, is trying to carve his territory

Hopefully we will continue seeing him in Kanha for long time to come.

What you should know before planning a trip to Bandhavgarh National Park

FAQ – Bandhavgarh National Park

Here is everything you need to know about world famous tiger reserve - Bandhavgarh, its tourism and general information.


Tiger in Bandhavgarh Landscape - By Sushil Chikane

What is Bandhavgarh National Park?

Bandhavgarh National Park is a protected forest and designated tiger reserve spread over more than 450 Sq. Kms. (including core and buffer area) of dense forest. It is one of the best national park and tiger reserve of India for spotting the big cat – Tiger and other denizens of jungle.

Where is Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve located?

Situated in Umaria district of Central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, Bandhavgarh falls in Vindhya mountain landscape.

What can we do at Bandhavgarh?

Bandhavgarh forests are famous for jungle safari on 4x4 open Gypsy to see Tiger and other wildlife. It is the best place to enjoy the unspoiled forests of central India, bird watching, wildlife photography or just for a relaxing holiday with family and friends. Bandhavgarh is also known for ancient ruins, fort and caves inhabited by humans earlier, frequented by tigers now. Bandhavgarh fort was once seat of Baghel Rajput clan and is known to have history of almost 5000 years.   

Bandhavgarh - one of the best places to spot tigers - By Sushil Chikane

When should we visit Bandhavgarh?

Bandhavgarh national park is open for tourism for the whole year although core area safari is open only between 1^st of October till 30^th of June every year. For tourists who want to visit the core area on jeep safari should visit in this time only but for avid nature lovers and people who want to relax it is open for entire 12 months. Buffer safari is open in monsoon period also enabling tourists to enjoy the forest in rains but spotting a tiger is rare.

Wildlife photographers and nature lovers may plan a trip in any season to enjoy this beautiful jungle. All seasons have their own advantages and disadvantages like in summers it’s very hot and dry here but wildlife sightings and visibility is better and in monsoon season although you may not be able to enter the core area but its great time to photograph reptiles, butterflies and other insects along with some mammals which come out in buffer region as well as enjoy the floral diversity and peaceful environs.  

Dusshera, Dipawali, Christmas, New Year and long weekends are very busy being peak tourism time.

Which is best season to visit Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, MP?

As told earlier, all seasons have their positives and negatives. Family tours are best planned between October and April. Bandhavgarh lies in extreme climate zone so it is very hot in summers (max. temp 44 degrees centigrade), cold in winters (minimum temperature can drop sub-zero) and rains heavily in monsoon.

In summers chances of spotting tiger and other animals is high since water availability goes down and they must visit limited water holes making it easy to locate them. Immediately after monsoon when core area opens for safari it is very dense but jungle is very beautiful although spotting animals is bit low. Winters is very cold but drives are very lovely and animal sighting good.

Bird watching at Bandhavgarh - By Sushil Chikane

How is the weather conditions at Bandhavgarh National Park?

Bandhavgarh lies in central Indian landscape which has extreme and tropical climate with January being the coldest and May / June hottest months. It rains heavily in monsoon period.

Are Central Indian tiger reserves tourist friendly?

Travelers have been visiting national parks and reserves in Central India for many decades so all of them have very good tourism infrastructure. They have good accessibility and accommodation facility for all budgets – economy to luxury. Medical facility is available within 50 Km’s of most national parks and many hotels have facilities for special needs of tourists. We advise that visitors must carry their medications and prescriptions with them always.

Most hotels having friendly staff and local people are also very helpful. State government has appointed tourism police at most places so if you need any help it is readily available. We have not heard of any unpleasant incidents with tourists so we can figure out Bandhavgarh is a very safe destination.  

What languages are used at Tiger preserves of MP?

Hindi being the local language is most widely spoken at all tiger reserves in MP. Most hotels have English speaking staff so communication is not an issue if you are conversant in Hindi or English. As for other languages, we may need interpreters / language guides which can be arranged by your accommodation provider or tour operator with sufficient notice and payment of requisite charges.  

Bandhavgarh has 46 mammal species By - Sushil Chikane

What are other destinations we can cover along with Bandhavgarh?

Madhya Pradesh is a big state with historical, architectural, hill station, cultural, spiritual and other tourism options. Along with Bandhavgarh you can plan to visit other national parks like Kanha tiger reserve, Panna tiger reserve, Satpuda national park or pachmarhi (hill station), Jabalpur, Rewa, Khajuraho (temples), Orchha, Amarkantak, etc., We suggest national parks should be given 3 night / 4 days and minimum 2 parks should be covered. A three week tour package will cover almost all important tourism destination of Madhya Pradesh.

What should be minimum duration of stay at Bandhavgarh National Park?

We suggest a minimum 3-night stay at Bandhavgarh with 4 safaris and 1 jungle walks to enjoy this beautiful forest to its best.

Should we book tiger safari package through agent or directly?

Both the choices are good depending on how you wish to make your holiday plan. You are the best person to understand your choice so plan and book directly or else you can take tailormade packages from any well-known tour operator. Most accommodation providers around national parks in Madhya Pradesh will be able to assist you in your plans along with safari booking and transportation and even propose a tailor-made package as per your need. If you have limited budget certainly pre-made and group departure packages always come cost-effective to tailor made / FIT packages. 

Stork at Bandhavgarh By - Sushil Chikane

How are safaris planned?

2 safaris are available every day one from sunrise and one at after noon. There is a break of 3 to 4 hours between both safaris when you can have some rest and lunch. You are permitted to enter any one zone at a time so do ask your accommodation or tour operator to check for best sightings and book safari in recommended zone.

How can we book tiger safari entry permit?

Safari entry permits in central Indian forests are booked through MP Online portal. Permits can be booked directly or via tour operator / accommodation where you are staying. Safari entry permits can be booked through registered MP Online kiosks or at the entry gate of tiger reserve also on current basis but it is advisable to book your permit well in advance. Safari permit can be booked 120 days in advance.

Remember, national parks in Madhya Pradesh are closed for safari on Wednesday afternoons. Do carry your original photo ID (Government issued photo id like driving license, passport, PAN, etc.) to show at the entry point without which you can be denied admission. 

Red Headed (King) Vulture By - Sushil Chikane

What is zone system for safaris?

Bandhavgarh tiger reserve is divided into 3 tourism zones namely Tala, Khitauli and Maghdi. You are only allowed in zone where you have booked your permit for, so If you have booked permit for Tala zone you cannot enter Maghdi zone. Plan well in advance and consult your accommodation and local contact if any before finalizing on zone.

How to get a guide / naturalist to accompany for safari?

National park entry is permitted only if you are accompanied with registered guide. You get your guide at the entry gate after due verification of your photo id’s and permit. Registered guides must be paid a fixed amount of guide fees before entry.  

Many accommodation providers have naturalists to accompany you for safaris without any extra charge but taking a government guide is mandatory.  

Bandhavgarh is known to have highest density of Wild Tigers. By - Sushil Chikane

Can I take my own vehicle for jungle safari?

Private vehicles are not allowed in national parks. Only vehicles registered with the forest department are permitted to take guests for safari in the tiger reserves of Madhya Pradesh. You can get a vehicle through the accommodation provider or Gypsy Association which has a counter at the entry gate after payment of stipulated amount.

How many people are allowed in one safari vehicle?

Maximum 6 guests above age of 5 years are allowed in one Gypsy, they are accompanied with one guide and a driver.

Can safari ticket be cancelled / rescheduled?

Safari entry permit can be rescheduled on payment of requisite fees as well as cancelled. If a permit is cancelled you get a refund directly in your bank account. Ticket can be rescheduled or cancelled online through portal of MP Online. Further details can be checked at MP Online portal.

What is elephant safari / Tiger shows?

Elephant back safari is an excellent way of enjoying the forest as it enables you to visit deep forests whereas when on Jeep you must follow designated road route. But, we suggest not to take the elephant safaris since they are for patrolling the tiger reserve and not intended for tourism purpose.

Earlier forest department used to conduct Tiger shows where in tourists were ferried on elephant back to the spot where tiger is sitting deep inside the forest and you were given a few minutes to see the majestic cat but now this practice has been discontinued.

Blue Bull is known as Neel Gai due to its cow like face By - Sushil Chikane

What clothing is best for jungle tourism?

Always wear subtle / forest colors since bright colors are known to disturb wildlife thereby decreasing the chances of spotting animals.

Winters in forests of Madhya Pradesh can be very harsh with temperature going subzero at times so carry enough layers of woolen to cover yourself. Temperature till end of March can be cold early morning so do carry a light woolen jacket / wind cheater.  

Light cotton clothing is best for summers and in monsoon do not forget to carry a good rain coat and light cotton clothing.   

What animals can we see at Bandhavgarh?

Bandhavgarh forests are known to be home to 27 mammals, 250 birds, 100+ butterflies and host of other small and big living beings. Tiger, Leopard, Wild Dogs, Jackal, Hyena, Fox, Gaur, Spotted Deer, Sambhar Deer, Barking Deer, etc. can be seen here easily.

Tiger in Bandhavgarh. By - Sushil Chikane

How is bird watching at Bandhavgarh Tiger reserve?

Bandhavgarh is known to have more than 250 species of birds making it one of the best destination for bird watching. Birding can be done in core area by Gypsy or in the buffer region on foot. When planning a bird safari trip to Bandhavgarh do take a minimum of 4 to 5 bird watching treks in buffer area along with 3 to 4 core area Gypsy safaris to see maximum numbers of birds.  A good pair of binocular and bird guide book is a must. You can also ask your lodging to provide a naturalist or guide who knows the local area well and can accompany you on bird watching trips.

Which hotels resorts are best for stay at Bandhavgarh?

Bandhavgarh has an excellent tourism infrastructure and you can get a place to stay ranging from INR 500/- to INR 20,000/- and more per day so you have a good choice. We will suggest selecting a hotel or resort where the management values its social responsibility and cares for forest and biodiversity.

Aaranayak Resort, Taj – Mahua Tola, Bandhav Vilas, Samode, Tiger Den, White Tiger Lodge (MP Tourism) and MP forest department rest houses are very good options.  

Bird watching has its own charm By - Sushil Chikane

What budget should we keep in mind for Bandhavgarh visit?

You can get accommodation ranging between INR 500/- to 20,000/- per day at Bandhavgarh. Since most of the farm produce here is costly and other ingredients are bought from cities as far as 50 Kms food costs a bit on higher side.

But, most expensive of all is Jungle safari, which costs approximately INR 5000/- for core area and around INR 4500/- for buffer zone. This cost includes entry permit, gypsy, guide, safari facilitation charges and taxes thereon and prices are same for both Indian and foreign nationals.  

A two-night stay in a 3-star property with 2 safaris can cost around INR 22,000/- to 24,000/- for a couple. Transportation to / from Bandhavgarh is extra.

Is Bandhavgarh a safe destination?

We have not heard of any major unpleasant incident in or around Bandhavgarh national park rather you will find people here to be very tourist friendly and helpful.

How is Bandhavgarh for wildlife photography?

Bandhavgarh is one of the best destination for wildlife and bird photography especially for photographing Tigers. I will suggest maximum 4 members in one Gypsy when on photography trip to Bandhavgarh. Tell your driver and guide about your interest well in advance, drive slow and keep your eyes open or you may miss many some good photographic opportunities. Carry extra battery and storage capacity for your photographs. Bandhavgarh is a very good place for Bird photography also.

Wildlife photographers from all over the world visit Bandhavgarh for
photographing Tigers and other wildlife. By - Sshl Chikane

Is Bandhavgarh children / family friendly?

Yes, as it has a very good tourism infrastructure Bandhavgarh can be visited with children and family. It is one of the best destinations for children to enjoy the natural heritage and learn about bio-diversity.

What should we carry when visiting Bandhavgarh?

All tiger reserves in Madhya Pradesh are remotely located so do make a list of all required items especially medicine and carry them with you. A good guide book, list of flora and fauna, binocular and a camera are standard gear’s in any wildlife expedition so do not forget any of them.

Bandhavgarh boasts of 300+ species of birds. By - Sushil Chikane 

How to reach Bandhavgarh National Park?

Bandhavgarh tiger reserve can be reached from Jabalpur, Katni, Satna and Khajuraho very easily. All these places are well connected with road and rail network. Jabalpur, and Khajuraho are also connected by Air with major cities in India.

Remember you are on a holiday to a forest area and should follow a set of rules, Do’s and Don’ts which you can get from your accommodation provider. I have tried to cover most important points but may have missed a couple so if you have any doubt feel free to contact me on nature.luv@gmail.com

Spotted dear are most abundant of all deer species. By - Sushil Chikane

Enjoy your trip to Bandhavgarh National Park……..

Photo Credit: We are grateful to our friend Mr Sushil Chikane, http://yourjourneys.co.in for permitting us to use his photographs of Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve.  

Spotted deer spotted a snake. By - Sushil Chikane

Black faced (Hanuman) Langur. By - Sushil Chikane

 

Peacock - National Bird of India. By - Sushil Chikane