To mark World Environment Day, National Geographic India is set to premiere Nilgiris: A Shared Wilderness, a feature-length wildlife documentary by acclaimed filmmaker and National Geographic Fellow Sandesh Kadur. The film will air on June 5 at 12 PM and 9 PM, offering viewers an immersive journey into one of India’s most ecologically significant regions.
Set within the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve-India’s first UNESCO-recognised biosphere reserve—the documentary explores the unique relationship between wildlife, local communities, and the landscapes they share. Through years of fieldwork and observation, Kadur captures a rare portrait of coexistence, where nature and human life continue to intersect in remarkable ways.
The film traverses tea plantations, ancient shola forests, railway corridors, towns, and wildlife habitats, showcasing how species such as leopards, gaur, and other native wildlife adapt to changing environments while living alongside growing human settlements.
Complementing the visual storytelling is an original musical score composed by Susheela Raman, Sam Mills, and Neel Adhikari, enhancing the film’s themes of conservation, resilience, and coexistence.
Executive produced by Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies, the documentary aims to spark conversations around sustainability, environmental stewardship, and the preservation of India’s natural heritage.
Alok Jain, Head – Hindi and English Entertainment Business (Streaming, TV & Studios), JioStar, said the film reflects National Geographic’s commitment to meaningful storytelling that deepens audiences’ understanding of the natural world.
The documentary has already earned international acclaim, including the Best Sound Award at the 2025 Jackson Wild Media Awards.
With its World Environment Day premiere, Nilgiris: A Shared Wilderness seeks to inspire greater appreciation and protection of one of India’s most treasured ecosystems.
