Located in the Indian state of
Gujarat, Gir National Park stands as the last bastion for the majestic Asiatic
Lions. Once facing extinction and numbering only fifteen, the population of the
Asiatic Lions has risen slowly over the years to five hundred and twenty-three
thanks to the conservation efforts by the forest department and the local
tribes who live in harmony with these big cats. There are two main tribes that
dwell in and around Gir National Park, and whenever you visit the park you must
make it a point to visit these tribes as well to experience their unique
culture. It will reaffirm your faith in the fact that sustainable living isn’t
just a far-fetched concept but a possibility. Let us shed a little light on
them.
Maldharis
Maldharis
Maldharis are one of the oldest
tribes of Gujarat and have been living in the Gir Forest for over a thousand
years. Herders by profession, their tolerance towards the Lions is one of the
major reasons the Lions have been flourishing in Gir. They are the perfect
example of how it is possible for humans to coexist with nature. The Maldharis
do not view Lions as a threat but as brethren and the losses that they incur,
they believe it is their offering to the Lions for sharing their habitat with
them. Such an ideology can be instrumental in conserving the precious wildlife
of our country, and such a value system can only be found in India. Such an
interesting community is worth studying which is why we organize excursions to
the Maldhari villages to meet and greet these ‘Lion People’. Besides being
torchbearers for conservation, Maldharis also possess excellent culinary
skills. ‘Maldhari Thali’ is something you must try if you ever visit Gujarat.
Siddhis
Inhabiting the areas surrounding
the Gir Forest National Park, Siddhis are a native African tribe which were
brought to the Western Coast over three hundred years ago and have been living
there ever since. Though they have adopted the regional language and customs,
they still practice some of their original traditions, Dhamaal dance being one
of them. Some lodges near the park organize these dance performances, Gir
birding lodge being one of them. Many of the tribesmen have now become forest
rangers and guides and have taken on the mantle for the conservation of the
unique wildlife of Gir National Park.
