Wildlife / Animals nominee

This photograph was taken in the heart of Jim Corbett National Park, a sanctuary renowned for its majestic elephants and pristine wilderness. Every year, particularly during May and June, the park becomes a natural magnet for large herds of elephants. After the controlled burning of dry grass, lush new shoots emerge, attracting these gentle giants in great numbers to graze on the fresh growth.

As a regular visitor to this incredible ecosystem, I always look forward to these months. However, this year was particularly special. While observing the movement of multiple elephant herds—some approaching and others retreating—I noticed one particular group passing unusually close to me. A few elephants broke into a gentle run as they crossed my path.

In that fleeting moment, an idea struck me. I quickly lowered myself to ground level, hoping to frame the trailing elephants through the legs of those in front—a perspective not often captured. I adjusted my white balance for a more dramatic tone, held my breath, and clicked the shutter.

I am Vinod Patil, fondly known as Baiju, and for the past three decades I have dedicated my life to
exploring forests, documenting wildlife, and using my camera as a tool for conservation. Nature has
always been my true home—the call of birds, the silence of the jungle, and the raw beauty of wild
landscapes fuel my passion every day. My journey has been blessed with many honours. I am the only
photographer to have won the Sanctuary Asia Wildlife Photographer of the Year title three times. In
2018, I received the DJ Memorial International Award, and my tiger photographs were later exhibited
at the Royal Albert Hall, London. Representing India at the FIAP World Cup in Serbia (2017) and
winning the Gold Medal was one of my proudest moments. In 2015, the UK recognised me as the
International Garden Photographer of the Year. To date, I have received more than 32 national and
international awards, including recognition from National Geographic, Europe, the UK, and Australia.
In 2010, I published my coffee-table book “Wildscapes”, which was launched by the Governor of
Maharashtra in the presence of Shri Mukesh Ambani. Beyond awards, I take pride in mentoring young
photographers, training them