In this incessant struggle of who dominates who in this world, are we ‘Buck’, who had forgotten what it’s truly like being domesticated or being in the wild? How do we define this state of being constantly perplexed by who we are?
Let’s get our heads wrapped around one thing clearly, be it the wild, or a busy city where traffic honks replace alarm calls, our primitive instincts remain-survival. It’s a rusty old saying, “survival of the fittest”, but is it not true? The mere fact that us homo sapiens are a superior character than Buck, gives us an edge of breathing free, of surviving every hardship thrown our way. No struggle, or at least we like to believe there is none. Living in a constant bubble, forgetting what it is really like to survive and fight for every step you take, BEING IN A JUNGLE, BEING AWARE, BEING WATCHED.
Take it from a person who has spent close to three decades studying wildlife and national parks of India, it is not easy. You either adapt or you adapt soon. There are no two ways around it. A tiger adapts itself to a new territory, making the jungle amply aware of his presence, rule and power.
Being superior comes with massive responsibility. We sapiens (wise) need to abide by that term. Our national parks were not given to us as a gift, and I don’t mean this is a negative way. Mother nature has truly blessed us in abundance. What I do want everyone to understand is that, it was given to us at a cost. The down payment to such a cost–educating our future generation and helping them master the art of how survival instincts help every species in a jungle, and us in real life.
Buck was no different, he had been domesticated for way too long to have known how to survive in the wild. But when push comes to shove, everyone steps up. You live to cease a new dawn, yet doubting the sight of dusk.
Sharad Vats brings over three decades of rich safari experience across the Indian wilderness, leading a passionate team dedicated to delivering seamless and memorable wildlife journeys. With deep knowledge of jungle logistics—ranging from flora and fauna to experienced guides and skilled jeep drivers—he ensures that every safari is thoughtfully curated and effortlessly executed, offering guests an immersive and almost ethereal experience in the wild.
Over the years, Sharad has also spent extensive time assisting guests, curating personalized tours, and leading wildlife expeditions, combining operational excellence with a deep understanding of guest expectations.
Beyond tourism, he is an active contributor to the wildlife ecosystem. His initiatives include planting and maintaining thousands of trees, creating safe passages and corridors for tigers, and establishing solar-powered waterholes across Kanha and other national parks. He is equally committed to community development, supporting and adopting schools in nearby villages, reflecting a holistic approach to conservation and sustainable tourism.
