Filmmaker and wildlife photographer Amoghavarsha JS talks about the importance of conservation and sustainability before what we see today becomes just a memory. By Team Viva
If anything the pandemic has taught us, it is how much we need the outdoors. So why not give unique species, animals and nature a chance because we exist only when these thrive? That’s an awareness that award-winning wildlife photographer and filmmaker Amoghavarsha JS wants to develop as he documents the world’s biodiversity.
What made you focus on wildlife and environment conservation?
Essentially, I have always loved the wildlife. And now more than ever, the kind of scenario we are in, it is very important to show the story that we are lucky enough to witness. That hopefully would make us responsible. I have always maintained that wildlife conservation is not about saving animals or the forest, it is more about making sure that we as a species can survive and create a world which makes you feel like living.
Which project has been your favourite over the years?
It’s hard to pick. But yes, my focus is local. I chase stories based on our own backyard, for which we have some context, rather than the exotic with which it is difficult to establish a connection. The audience goes far away with these stories in Africa and then comes back to reality, thinking it’s happening in some other part of the world and not here. Hence, all my projects focus more on local and relatable content. Some of the noteworthy projects are the Indian Wildlife National Anthem, then the award-winning film called Kali which follows the river and the journey of a 100-year-old grandmother to the source of the river.
Could you share some steps for conservation?
Given the situation we are in, and this is what I keep saying, India has a lot of biodiversity. If we go as rampant as China, we will have a pandemic every month. We need to protect these forests to a certain extent. There needs to be a combined responsibility of humans towards nature and our planet. So more than ever, the argument of why wild animals need to be protected and saved, the only example I can give right now is, in this situation, we have almost everything we can dream of. Everyone wanted to not go out, not face the traffic and we are all sitting at home. But given that everyone is getting food, shelter, internet, television and not having to go out, we are now craving to go outdoors. And this brings the most essential point, that we as human species have a world outdoors. And the better outdoor environment we have, it will be good for us and for our planet. Another thing I want to add is that we need to wake up and see the reality before things go bad.
Considering that the Indian audience has a completely different mindset, do you think documentaries and topics like wildlife conservation and environment work well with them?
It is a complex question. Some documentaries work, some don’t. Most often, we filmmakers are to be blamed because we try to make films so accurate and perfect that sometimes the messaging doesn’t reach the audience and that’s a failure on our part. So, we need to change the profiles of films so that the audience can get the message and feels invested in the story.
What is of graver concern, lack of understanding or responsibility?
I would say the first step is awareness. Without it, you cannot take any action. The best example is that of plastic. Till it affected us and choked our rivers and seas, the Government didn’t even think it would have to ban it. And everyone is conforming, too. I feel this is totally due to media awareness. So, the media plays a very powerful role in bringing in awareness and responsibility.
Who do you look up to in the field of wildlife and conservation?
There is only one answer, the wildlife god — Sir David Attenborough. His voice is unbelievable and also the kind of person he is. I have met him and spent a couple of hours with him. And I think he is an amazing human being, humble and down to earth.
What are your forthcoming projects and plans?
I will make a short film on the monsoon in the Western Ghats of Karnataka. I am also doing a bunch of things around Mumbai and Bangalore. Hopefully, once the lockdown is eased, we can have a clear picture.
What would be your concerns for the future?
In this situation, we have all understood that kids, or the next generation, definitely have access to food and occupation. But fresh air and water are going to be a big crisis. And I think it’s every individual’s responsibility to leave behind a planet for the next generation in a condition where people are still able to live and have access to water and fresh air. And COVID has been an example to pause and prioritise.
(The wildlife photographer and filmmaker went live on Sony BBC Earth’s Instagram page along with actor Randeep Hooda on World Conservation Day to discuss his views.)