The Jungle Beyond Big Game
The focal point of a trip to the forests in India is - Big Game. An encounter with the king, the Tiger or glimpse of the elusive Leopard or Sloth Bear. In this constant anticipation of stripes and dots a lot of us miss out on the sheer beauty of the landscape. The Jungle is most beautiful post monsoon. Sunlight streaming through the lush canopy and making its way to the jungle floor, wild grass as tall as you swaying to the gentle breeze and a group of wildflowers breaking the monochrome setup. Little birds and big birds flitting through the trees. The juxtaposition of a herd of Spotted Deer or the stout Sambar Deer against the lush green backdrop. The gentle stream gurgling by, and the magnificent black stork striking a pose. The peacock showing off his beauty as if putting the display only for you. The nimble drongo riding with its mate. The jungle so thick, almost tropical , running along the ruins, many a centuries old. Hanging roots of the mighty Banyan calling out to you, I wonder how old it is and what all has it witnessed. I am sure it witnessed the abundance and also the purge, when humans came around with their contraptions. It has seen resurgence and still comes across indifference. I believe it has seen it all.
In the Jungle, there is a surprise at every corner, sometimes despair when you see plastic waste littered on the jungle floor. The humble forest guide, not as educated as you & me but much richer in his deeds, picks up the waste which we carelessly discard in the most fragile ecosystem. He shows me a video of a python with his head stuck in a plastic bottle and in a few minutes I myself witness a scared baby langur entangled in a plastic bag while the mother desperately trying to help her child in despair. The guide with his humble means cares and we with all our means continue to remain callous.
Go to the Jungles I say, learn a little bit about it before you go, do not wait for the big game, instead take in the abundant beauty and be kind towards it. Most importantly, keep away those packets of chips and gums, a few hours without it is only going to do you good.
