Filmmaker Sandesh Kadur’s new documentary unveils Nilgiris’ unique biodiversity

In ‘Nilgiris - A Shared Wilderness,’ renowned wildlife filmmaker Sandesh Kadur explores India’s oldest biosphere reserve

The Nilgiris, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve nestled in India’s Western Ghats, is a region unlike any other in the country. Here, tropical forests, high-altitude grasslands, and shola woodlands converge in a unique ecosystem that supports an extraordinary range of wildlife. From leopards and gaur to the laughing thrush, the species found here often adapt in unexpected ways to the encroaching human landscapes around them. However, it is not just the animals but also the people, following an ancient tradition of coexistence, who play a role in preserving this delicate balance.

This interdependence is the subject of Nilgiris - A Shared Wilderness, a newly-released documentary produced by Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies and directed by acclaimed wildlife filmmaker Sandesh Kadur. Launched in Chennai on November 3 to coincide with the International Day for Biosphere Reserves, the film highlights the resilience of Nilgiris’ wildlife amid increasing encroachment and the ongoing efforts to foster a culture of conservation.

Sandesh, whose films have been shown on various leading television networks, including National Geographic Channel, BBC, Discovery Channel, and Animal Planet, discusses the project’s origins, “This journey began about three years ago with a conversation between Rohini, Nandan Nilekani, and myself. Rohini, who spends a lot of time in the Nilgiris, brought up the topic during one of our evening walks.”

Despite extensive literature on the Nilgiris, the group found no comprehensive documentary specifically about this mountain range, a surprising discovery considering its status as India’s first UNESCO biosphere reserve. That realisation sparked their ambition to create one.

As a filmmaker with a deep connection to the Nilgiris, Sandesh was well-suited to the task. He recounts his experiences photographing the region for his book Sahyadris: India’s Western Ghats - A Vanishing Heritage. “I spent a lot of time exploring all sides of the Nilgiris. It was my first proper introduction to this unique landscape, where you can experience a variety of habitats within half a day. You can go from scrub forests on the north side to tropical forests along the slopes, then to grasslands and sholas. It’s incredibly unique in that way.”

The documentary takes viewers on a journey through this landscape, revealing an ecosystem where human and wildlife futures are increasingly intertwined. Sandesh explains, “The nature of the place is such that there’s a lot of wildlife spillover into tea gardens, private homes, and other spaces.” He notes that while wildlife numbers are declining globally, the Nilgiris present a “reverse story” where species like leopards and gaur are increasingly seen cohabiting with humans.

Rohini, actively involved during the filming, recalls moments highlighting this interaction, including seeing the Moyar waterfall and watching a black panther with its cubs in a tea estate. She’s witnessed flycatchers bathing in her yard and even encountered a sloth bear wandering into her home.