In the 1970s, India’s tiger population was dwindling, with less than 1,800 left. Today, almost 3,500 of these majestic beasts proudly prowl in the country. The cause behind this miracle is the relentless resolve of Project Tiger, which celebrated its Golden Jubilee with the launch of a new coffee table book, Roar, at the Park Hotel on May 23. My Kolkata brings you snippets from the launch.
The book has been co-created by wildlife enthusiasts Ketan Sengupta and Shiladitya Chaudhury
Launched by the Government of India on April 1, 1973, Project Tiger began with the aim of conserving the tiger population and preserving the ecological balance. As of March 2024, 55 protected areas have been designated as tiger reserves under this project, with India housing almost 75% of the world’s tiger population.
The book launch was preceded by an invigorating panel discussion on Project Tiger’s journey. On the dais were Sunil Limaye, IFS (retired), former Principal Chief Conservator of Forest under Government of Maharashtra; Pradeep Vyas, IFS (retired), former Principal Chief Conservator of Forest under Government of West Bengal; wildlife enthusiast and entrepreneur Shiladitya Chaudhury; and real estate professional and educationist, Ketan Sengupta. Chaudhury and Sengupta are also the co-authors of the book.
Sunil advised tourists to not miss out on the authentic jungle experience in their singular pursuit of tigers. “Unfortunately, people often don’t experience real jungles because of their obsession with tigers. We must encourage people to explore places like the Sunderbans for the beautiful forests. If they see a tiger, it’s a bonus!”
Some images from ‘Roar’ Ketan Sengupta; Shiladitya Chaudhury
Sengupta addressed the critics who questioned the need to spend on tiger conservation. Since India has over 70% of the global tiger population, he argued that a huge chunk of tourists who want to see a tiger come to India, establishing a healthy return to tourism. “Apart from ecological balance, a tiger also earns significant foreign exchange for India,” he smiled.
Pradeep lauded the book for its pictorial representation of tigers. “Each picture is a story in itself, and this book tells many such stories. I hope it goes a long way in creating awareness about tigers,” he said, adding that Roar should end up in school libraries, where it can help children find a love for tigers.
The chief guest of the evening was US Consul General in Kolkata, Melinda Pavek. She recounted spotting a tiger at Kaziranga National Park: “We got to see two tigers rubbing noses. That image personifies the concept of familial love to me, and reminds me of the warm hugs I receive whenever I fly back to the US to visit my family!”
‘In today’s world, many of us don’t know about the reality of Project Tiger, but this book will remedy it. I look forward to many more such books,’ said food blogger Indrajit Lahiri Soumyajit Dey
Published by Wordphonics, Roar comprises stunning photographs by Chaudhary and Sengupta, featuring India’s national animal in its natural habitat. Priced at Rs 3,000, it is available across leading bookstores in Kolkata and online.
