Did you know that the theme for World Wildlife Day this year is ‘Connecting People and Planet: Exploring Digital Innovation in Wildlife Conservation’? This is to highlight the role of digital technologies and innovations in advancing wildlife conservation and sustainable development. It also encourages people to share their stories and experiences using digital tools to appreciate wildlife. Many actors, sportspersons, business tycoons and other public figures have been engaged in spreading awareness about the conversation of wildlife through photography. They often share their stunning photos on social media too. This World Wildlife Day, My Kolkata looks at some celebrities who have picked up the camera to capture the beauty of wildlife.
Sabyasachi Chakrabarty
Although not present on Facebook, actor Sabyasachi Chakraborty has been into photography since childhood. He started his journey into wildlife photography with the help of his photographer friends — Hirak Sen, Pranab Basu and Utpal Sarkar. When he’s not working, he loves to pack his bags and explore jungles across the world. He has also held several exhibitions of his photos in the city, and he has published a book named Afrikay Sabyasachi, which contains his collection of photographs from his Africa trip with detailed information.
Dia Mirza
The diva of the early 2000s, Dia Mirza ventured into wildlife photography gradually, and in the process, became a wildlife enthusiast and conservationist. Her passion for wildlife and environmental causes has been evident through the various endeavours she has undertaken with organisations like World Wildlife Fund, Wildlife Trust of India and others. Mirza’s involvement with wildlife conservation has been profound, advocating for the protection of endangered species and their habitats. She has actively participated in campaigns aimed at raising awareness about wildlife preservation and has been vocal about sustainable living practices. Her dedication to wildlife conservation serves as an inspiration online through her social media accounts. She often posts videos and photos – spreading awareness about conservation and protection of nature.
Anil Kumble
Anil Kumble has been celebrated for his feats on the cricket field, but he has extended his passion beyond the boundaries of sports into the field of wildlife photography. Fascinated by the beauty and diversity of the natural world, Kumble captures wildlife through his lens with precision and artistry. In several interviews he has revealed being inspired by legendary nature photographers like Ansel Adams and Steve McCurry. With a keen eye for detail and composition, Kumble's photographs capture animals in their natural habitat. One can see them on his Instagram account. His lens not only documents the splendour of wildlife, but also advocates for its conservation — highlighting the need to protect these fragile ecosystems for future generations.
Randeep Hooda
Randeep Hooda, Bollywood actor and equestrian, is also known for his passion for wildlife photography. Beyond his on-screen charisma, Hooda has showcased a remarkable talent from behind the lens, capturing the raw beauty of nature and its inhabitants. Last year, in July, he explored the forests of Kanha with his Nikon Z9. He also draws inspiration from renowned wildlife photographer Sarosh Lodhi.
Waheeda Rehman
The evergreen Waheeda Rehman took to wildlife photography at the age of 80. She started nurturing her passion for photography when she was young. She used to carry a small camera to her shoots and captured various frames. However, she turned to wildlife photography when she turned 80. The actress travelled across India, Tanzania, Namibia and Kenya to capture the beauty of the wild. The photos were exhibited in an exclusive exhibition in Bhopal in 2015. She was also among the 24 amateur photographers who received mentorship from photographer Himanshuu Sheth.
Sadaa Sayed
Actress Sadaa Sayed, who has worked in several Tamil and Telugu films, is also a Nikon-recognised wildlife photographer. The actress has a separate Instagram account with the user ID @sadaa_wildlifephotography, where she posts stunning photos of animals and birds from sanctuaries and forest reserves. Her recent photos of tigers in the Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve are breathtaking. This year in January, Sadaa was recognised as a #Nikoncreator on Instagram by Nikon India. She is also an animal rights activist and follows ethical veganism.
Harshvardhan Rane
Harshvardhan Rane, who has been seen in various Hindi and Telugu films, is also a wildlife photographer. Rane was in Ranthambore last year where he captured some artistic shots of the birds and animals in their ecosystem. He also spotted Red Pandas last December in Nepal and managed to take some stunning shots.
Lata Mangeshkar, singer
Lata Mangeshkar was an avid wildlife enthusiast and a passionate photographer. Remembering the legendary singer, Sharmila Tagore had mentioned this about her in several interviews to the press. Tagore said that her husband, Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi, and Lata Mangeshkar shared the same love for wildlife and cricket. The singer's Instagram account even has photos of her holding the camera.
