Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve, previously known as Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary in the past, is located in the southern eastern part of Kota town in Rajasthan.
This year, on 23rd and 24th February 2023, a photography exhibition took place in the Netherlands in order to promote the wildlife that exists in Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve (MHTR) and raise awareness of the same among the international community at large.
It was a 2-day exhibition held in the Indian cultural centre of The Hague, Netherlands which showcased 25 life-sized portraits captured by Manish Arya.
Manish Arya is a wildlife photographer and conservationist based in Kota whose work has been featured on a variety of national and international platforms and publications.
Attended by a large number of individuals from all walks of life including both European citizens and Non-Resident Indians, this exhibition was organised in an effort to bring attention to the importance of the MHTR and its remarkable wildlife, showcasing the beauty and diversity of the area to a global audience.
Who was the organiser?
Pallav Jha, a resident of Kota who graduated from Visvesvaraya National Institute of Technology and completed his MBA from Indian Institute of Management, Indore, was the driving force behind this exhibit jointly with Gandhi Center (Indian Cultural Center).
With his deep-rooted interest in wildlife conservation, he often devotes his time to advancing initiatives that protect wildlife and bring about meaningful change.
During a conversation with him, he mentioned how he aims to help his hometown become a beacon of creativity and ingenuity with the portrayal of the diverse culture that Kota has and making it a major tourist destination not only for its beauty, but also for its history and potential.
This effort serves as a reminder that each of us can contribute to protecting the environment and its inhabitants in our own unique way, whether it is through volunteering, promoting sustainable tourism, or supporting conservation initiatives.