Parimal Nathwani’s “Call of the Gir” is an enchanting visual journey of the Gir Forest and its majestic Asiatic lions. This coffee table book, rich with more than 100 stunning photographs and vivid descriptions, invites readers to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and unique ecosystem of Gir. The book is a visual feast, making it a must-have for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.

While Nathwani’s earlier book “Gir Lion: Pride of Gujarat” was about Gir Lions, this latest book “call of the Gir” is not just about Lions, but also about the Forest, the birds, the mammals other than Lions, the trees(such as Jada Jambu), the locals (Maldharis), the trackers(Nathwani calls them the caretakers of Gir in the book), water assets(including Kamleshwar dam) and more.

Nathwani’s deep connection to Gir is palpable throughout the book. From his first visit over thirty years ago to his countless subsequent trips, his passion for the lions and their habitat shines through every page. His lens documents the Asiatic lions in their natural environment—ranging from powerful close-ups of their intense gaze to wide-angle shots of them roaming through the forest. The book also features dynamic action shots, including lions in mid-roar and during playful interactions, providing a window into their daily lives and social behaviours.

The content in “Call of the Gir” is a blend of historical accounts, conservation milestones, and heartwarming tales of Gir’s lion population. From the legendary duo Jay and Veeru (Nathwani himself has named this pair of Lions), whose bond mirrors that of iconic film characters, to the exceptional journey of Queen, a lioness who traversed over 300 km to protect her cubs, each story is brought to life with breathtaking photographs.

The book features a rich variety of photographs that capture the essence of Gir Forest. Nathwani’s images range from dramatic close-ups of the Asiatic lions, including the powerful male lions and the strong nurturing lionesses, to sweeping landscapes of the forest’s lush greenery and rugged terrain. Each photograph tells a story, whether it’s a tense moment during a lion’s hunt, the tender care of a lioness towards her cubs, or the tranquil beauty of a sunrise over the forest.

From the playful antics of lion cubs to the rare sight of lions climbing trees, the images capture the raw and unfiltered beauty of Gir. Nathwani highlights the forest’s flora and fauna, the critical role of waterholes, mineral licks, and other natural features that support its rich biodiversity. 

Readers will find vibrant shots of the region’s flora, from the dense forests and thorny scrublands to the colourful wildflowers that dot the landscape. Pictures of other wildlife, such as leopards, deer, and various bird species, highlight the rich biodiversity that Gir supports.

The book goes beyond just showcasing the animals and their environment. It features beautiful portraits of conservationists and Maldharis who have played crucial roles in the preservation of Gir. These images provide a human touch to the story, emphasising the collaborative efforts that have led to the revival of the Asiatic lion population.

Moreover, Nathwani extends his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his support and enthusiasm for Gir. He also acknowledges the contributions of Union Cabinet Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupendra Yadav, Gujarat’s Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change Malubhai Bera, and Anant Ambani, who has shown remarkable commitment to animal welfare through his project Vantara. Their messages and well-wishes add a layer of depth and significance to the book.

A notable quote from Nathwani encapsulates the essence of the book: “Preserving the lions of Gir isn’t merely about safeguarding a species; it’s about honouring a legacy, cherishing an icon of resilience, and ensuring the eternal reign of the Asiatic lion in its rightful kingdom.” Call of the Gir is more than just a collection of images; it is a narrative woven through visuals and words that celebrates the success of Gir Forest’s conservation and the beauty of its wildlife.

Nathwani during his post book-launch interaction with media persons expected his another book in the same series (of Gir and Gir Lions) to come out in couple of years. It too will be awaited. DeshGujarat