“I’m not your typical surgeon. My days are spent performing intricate pinhole procedures, but my soul craves for the vast canvas of nature.
In the meticulous world of minimally invasive surgery, I found a surprising parallel to the delicate balance of ecosystems. This unexpected connection would eventually lead me down a path filled with breathtaking wildlife encounters and a flourishing career in conservation photography.
I come from Vellore, a small town on the Chennai-Bangalore highway. Growing up, I could glimpse those starry skies, but always through glass ceilings. I wondered when I could soar!
I moved to Chennai for my MBBS and MD, specialised in Interventional Radiology and pin-hole surgeries. A University teaching career and several stints in top corporate hospitals followed in quick succession. But there was always this void inside of me. A hunger that would only be sated, when I got my first Camera in hand (It was actually my friend’s camera, to be precise)
My fascination with nature wasn’t a sudden revelation. It simmered during breaks; I’d find solace in nature documentaries, my eyes drawn to the intricate details of animal behavior and the vibrant tapestry of ecosystems. This yearning for the natural world deepened with each passing year.
The pivotal moment arrived during a medical conference held at Jabalpur, our group decided to take a detour to nearby Bandhavgarh National Park. This was where I sighted my first tiger in the wild. The grace and beauty of that fierce animal was etched in my mind for months after. Soon, weekends were dedicated to exploring hidden trails and national parks, my lens became the gateway to my dreams.
Photographing wildlife requires immense patience, an understanding of animal behavior, and a keen eye for composition – skills quite distinct from the controlled environment of the operating room. Yet, I persevered, and my medical background surprisingly provided unique benefits. My steady hands, honed through years of surgery, translated well to handling a camera with precision. Additionally, the meticulous planning required for a successful procedure mirrored the meticulous planning needed for that perfect wildlife shot – anticipating animal behavior, studying light conditions, and waiting for the right moment.
My photography blossomed. My images capture the beauty and vulnerability of wildlife – a majestic tiger emerging from the mist, a playful pod of dolphins leaping through sun-dappled water, and the silent strength of a lone rhino. These aren’t mere snapshots; they are stories woven with light and shadow, each one a testament to the delicate balance of nature. Each one teaches us that one world is all we have.
Awards and accolades started pouring in, culminating in a prestigious exhibition in Kolkata showcasing the beauty and plight of endangered species. Our photography page, ‘The Wild Doc,’ received a mention on the National Geographic web page.
What started out as a passion now serves as a powerful tools for conservation. My images and videos resonate with viewers, raising awareness about the threats wildlife faces and the importance of protecting their habitats.
There is an inherent interconnectedness between medicine, nature, and wildlife. I was an atheist until Nature became my religion and the forest my temple.
I’m a doctor, but I am also an accomplished wildlife photographer. The Earth needs healing, too!!”