India
holds the unique distinction of having a combination
of tigers and lions since the prehistoric epoch. The
Asiatic lion is on the verge of extinction and is
enlisted in the Red Data Book of IUCN as “critically
endangered”. The ultimate habitat of the Asiatic
lion has been preserved and protected for centuries
in Gir Forest in Gujarat. The vibrant culture of Junagarh
had an overwhelming influence over the forest. The
ancient settlers still living inside the forest are
a cosmopolitan admixture originating from Iran, Baluchistan,
Africa and northern India. The later migrants, in
course of time, drove out the original inhabitants—the
Bhils and Koles. A comparative account of the Maldharis
of Gir and the ethnic Maasais of Africa has evolved
a remarkable facet, which was never discussed before.
This enchanting account of living in harmony with
the wilderness is interwoven with a number of anecdotes
of their hardship, struggle for existence, dependency
on the forest for livelihood and their occupation
as pastoralists. The book is not just a text describing
a species, but also captures a fleeting glimpse of
all cross-sections of the colourful forest. Written
in an archetypal style with 32 coloured photographs,
this book will be highly informative and useful for
all wildlife enthusiasts.
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