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Time of India
a day ago
- Time of India
This ‘movie' took Anand Mahindra back to his Ooty school days; now he wants everyone to watch
Source: IMDb Anand Mahindra , chairman of the Mahindra Group, has spotlighted the documentary 'Nilgiris: A Shared Wilderness' as his latest must-watch. For him, it's more than stunning visuals — it's a nostalgic return to his school days in Ooty and a passionate reminder of the need for environmental conservation. Directed by acclaimed wildlife filmmaker Sandesh Kadur, the film delves deep into the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO-recognized ecological treasure at the junction of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka. Known for its rolling grasslands, shola forests, waterfalls, and rare flora like the kurinji flower, the Nilgiris are vital to India's biodiversity. Mahindra's endorsement underscores the importance of preserving this pristine landscape for future generations while celebrating its breathtaking natural beauty. Anand Mahindra's must-watch movie pick 'Nilgiris: A Shared Wilderness' takes him back to his Ooty school days The Nilgiris Biosphere Reserve, located at the confluence of three southern Indian states — Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka — is among the oldest and most ecologically significant mountain ranges in India. As part of the UNESCO-designated Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot, the Nilgiris boast a rare and rich ecosystem. This region features: by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Here's The Estimated Cost of a 1-day Gutter Guards Installation HomeBuddy Click Here Undo Rolling grasslands and dense shola forests: These unique high-altitude forests and grasslands support diverse wildlife species. Gushing waterfalls and sparkling lakes: Natural water bodies that nourish the flora and fauna. Extraordinary flora and fauna: Home to many endemic and endangered species, including the rare kurinji flower, which blooms once every 12 years. The biodiversity of the Nilgiris is vital not only for the environment but also for maintaining ecological balance in the region. For Anand Mahindra, the documentary evokes more than just awe for nature's grandeur. It stirs a deep personal connection, recalling his formative years in the picturesque hill station of Ooty. Known officially as Udhagamandalam, Ooty's serene environment, lush tea plantations, and cool climate shaped his childhood experiences. Mahindra's reflections emphasize the emotional bond many have with the Nilgiris — a place that combines natural beauty with rich cultural history. This connection underscores the urgency of preserving such landscapes for future generations to experience the same wonder. Wildlife filmmaker captures the heart of the Nilgiris in stunning details Directed by renowned wildlife filmmaker Sandesh Kadur, 'Nilgiris: A Shared Wilderness' offers a compelling visual and narrative exploration of the Nilgiris Biosphere Reserve. Kadur's expertise in capturing the intricate details of wildlife and nature enriches the documentary's impact, making it both educational and visually stunning. The film showcases: The unique ecosystems within the Nilgiris. The challenges faced by wildlife and habitats due to human activities and climate change. The cultural and historical significance of the region. This documentary serves as a timely reminder of the importance of conservation and responsible coexistence with nature. Ooty, Coonoor, and Kotagiri: Tourism gems of the Nilgiris facing conservation challenges The three main hill stations — Ooty, Coonoor, and Kotagiri — have historically attracted tourists for their cool climate, tea gardens, and scenic landscapes. Once popular among European colonial visitors, these towns continue to draw travelers seeking respite from city life. Key attractions include: Mist-covered mountain peaks offering panoramic views. Tea plantations that contribute to the local economy. Seasonal natural phenomena such as the blooming of the violet kurinji flowers. However, increased tourism also presents challenges. Preserving the Nilgiris requires careful management to ensure that ecological footprints remain minimal and local communities benefit sustainably. Public reaction to Nilgiris documentary highlights love for nature and call for protection The documentary has sparked widespread discussion online, reflecting the deep affection people have for the Nilgiris and the urgent need to protect this fragile ecosystem. Comments from viewers include: Expressions of lifelong love for the Nilgiris and the rejuvenating experience of visiting Ooty. Appreciation for the film's role in raising awareness about the region's natural heritage. Calls for stricter protection measures, with some advocating for minimal human interference to allow forests to thrive naturally. Also Read | Meet Ganesh Venkataramanan, former Tesla Dojo lead building DensityAI's new all-in-one AI system for self-driving cars AI Masterclass for Students. Upskill Young Ones Today!– Join Now
Hamilton Spectator
24-07-2025
- Hamilton Spectator
Beach towns, wildlife watching and vineyard hopping: What to do in Norfolk County — including chef-approved picks
Summer in the city is crowded and sweltering. Use this road trip guide to get out of town and explore the charming places within driving distance of Toronto. Every week, we'll spotlight an Ontario destination, complete with expert picks for how best to enjoy. Happy trails! When Toronto's heat has you seeking a beach escape, set your sights and GPS on Norfolk County , also known as 'Ontario's South Coast,' about a two-hour drive southwest. In this generally quiet, largely rural area, the picturesque stretches of sand along Lake Erie are the main draw. Beyond basking on the beaches, there are small-town gems to explore, including Port Dover, right on the lake, and Simcoe, the county's largest community. Plus, there's easy access to natural beauty: bird watching in a UNESCO-recognized biosphere region, biking through a Carolinian forest, and strolling through one of Canada's most acclaimed botanical gardens. On the whole, the region is less tourist-crowded than, say, Prince Edward County and Niagara , so you'll feel like you're uncovering some of Ontario's blissful little hideaways. Here are some of the best things to do in Norfolk County: An aerial view of Long Point Beach at sunrise. Kick back on a beach. The region boasts three main beaches, each offering a distinct vibe. Turkey Point Provincial Park is favoured by families for its two-kilometre sandy beach and relatively shallow waters, while Port Dover has a stretch of sand dotted with palm trees (yes, real ones planted by the Beach House restaurant), just steps away from the town's shops. For wildlife enthusiasts, Long Point Beach is located in the provincial park of the same name. The park, a 40-kilometre sand spit that juts into the lake, is a UNESCO-recognized biosphere region renowned for its many species of songbirds and waterfowl and other wildlife, including the endangered American badger. The Main Street of Port Dover, just one of Norfolk County's communities. Explore one of the charming communities. Port Dover draws summer day-trippers for its beach, indie shops and restaurant patios. The compact core is easily walkable; before you start strolling, pick up a Golden Glow, the locally famous orange-flavoured drink at the Arbor, an institution since 1919. Browse Liberty Home Decor or Grand Trunk Station for the shabby-chic cottage decor, then walk to the waterside for the Port Dover Harbour Museum . At the museum, which was partially built into an original fisherman's net shanty, you can learn about this community's fishing heritage and shipwreck lore. End your nautical-themed tour at the Port Dover Lighthouse, one of the oldest of this wooden style in Ontario. Nicknamed 'Ontario's Garden,' Norfolk County is home to bucolic settings like Bonnieheath Estate Lavender & Winery. Sample the emerging wine region. Blessed with sandy soil and a lake-moderated microclimate, Norfolk County is home to several distinctive wineries and cideries. Burning Kiln Winery in St. Williams uses repurposed tobacco kilns for drying grapes, which concentrates the flavours in their passito-style wines, while Blueberry Hill Estates produces apple ciders, as well as wines from grapes, blueberries and cranberries (the bold flavour profiles may surprise you). Bonnieheath Estate Lavender & Winery , located in Waterford on what was once tobacco farmland, is now a gorgeous vineyard and lavender farm; here, try True Blue, the award-winning hard cider featuring lavender and Ontario blueberries. Wilsonville's Whistling Gardens is a horticultural attraction that has won numerous awards. Get inspired by the greenery. With its rich soil and milder climate, Norfolk County is home to more than a thousand farms, vineyards and cideries, earning this region the nickname 'Ontario's Garden.' One of the lushest attractions is Wilsonville's Whistling Gardens , a botanical garden considered one of Canada's best (judging by its haul of national awards). It features more than 4,500 different plants, with thousands of blooms, including dramatic foxtail lilies and vibrant red hot pokers. The peaceful paths will make you feel as if you're enjoying the grounds of your lavish country home. For take-home flowers, visit Delhi's Creekside Growers , where the four-acre u-cut dahlia field is the country's largest. (You can cut your own bouquet seasonally, August to September.) The fish and chips at the Back Kitchen at Burning Kiln Winery. Savour regional ingredients. At the Back Kitchen at Burning Kiln Winery, the comfort foods all hit the spot, including the fried-to-perfection fish and chips made with Ontario pickerel. For more upscale dining, book David's Restaurant in Port Dover, where chef Scott McRae's rotating continental menu takes inspiration from seasonal ingredients. Standouts include the steaks (sourced from nearby Oxford County) and the pickerel duo; the fish comes from Lake Erie, which you can see right from the restaurant, and is served both pan-seared and corn flour-battered. The observatory at Long Point Eco-Adventures, a glamping resort that offers a wide range of activities. Choose your own adventure. In Turkey Point, you'll find Long Point Eco-Adventures , a resort offering glamping pods and a whole slate of outdoorsy activities (all can be booked separately). For the thrills, try their zip-line tour for treetop views of Norfolk's Carolinian forest, or pedal through the forest on a mountain bike rental. For a more meditative pastime, join the nighttime observatory dome experience, when a storyteller will share ancient tales about the constellations while you stargaze through the 16-inch telescope. If you stay: In Port Dover, a short walk from both Main Street and Lake Erie, the four-suite Dover George offers the feel of a contemporary boutique hotel inside a transformed, historic red-brick home. Expect Frette bed linens, a pour-over coffee bar, and a seasonally inspired continental breakfast in the main-floor dining space. Scott McRae (shown with son Harrison on the Port Dover Pier) is the executive chef at David's Restaurant, right. Want more food and drink recommendations for Norfolk County? Scott McRae is the executive chef at David's Restaurant , one of Port Dover's best-known spots, serving up locally sourced ingredients in an elegant lakeside setting. He moved back to the county after a decade in Toronto (with stints at Opus, the Four Seasons Hotel Toronto, Thuet and the Rosewater Supper Club) and knows the bounty of Ontario's South Coast well. Here are just a few places McRae recommends for your next trip here. McRae 's recommendations include Thrive Norfolk, a tasting menu experience at a farm restaurant. Thrive Norfolk , Langton: 'Matt Demarest and his wife, August, have a garden and farm out by Langton, and they do a really unique, farm-to-table dining experience with small groups. They do tasting menus and you're surrounded by the garden and the farm animals.' Urban Parisian , Port Dover: 'My friend Brad is a pastry chef and owns this café with his wife. They offer all kinds of great French pastries, cakes, pizzas and seafood sandwiches — they do a really nice job there. There's a breakfast croissant I always get, and the pain au chocolate (is) kind of a staple for me.' Matz Fruit Barn is a small, family-owned fruit market where McRae sources produce. Matz Fruit Barn , Port Dover: 'It's a small, family-owned fruit market. We get most of our produce here when it's in season. They grow pretty much everything, all kinds of vegetables and fruit. Peaches, cherries, really any kind of berry you can think of.' The Dover Cheese Shop , Port Dover: 'This is a cool, little cheese boutique downtown. They have all kinds of local Ontario and Canadian cheeses, but also lots of really nice, imported cheeses as well. We get all our cheese for our cheeseboards from them.' The Neighbourhood Food Emporium , Port Dover: 'Aaron — he used to work here at David's — and his girlfriend, Jess, just opened a little sandwich shop. He bakes the focaccia fresh every day and does all the in-house pickling. He does great sandwiches and prepared meals there.' New Limburg is a restaurant/brewery offering Belgian-style beers. Charlotteville Brewing Co. , Simcoe, and New Limburg , Simcoe: 'There are a lot of breweries. Charlotteville is a really nice one with small-batch beers. And New Limburg — they bought an old schoolhouse and turned it into a brewery. They do cool, Belgian-style beers, like tripels and dubbels.'
India.com
12-07-2025
- India.com
Animal Lovers, Don't Scroll Past! These 7 Parks Near Raipur Are Calling You!
As the capital city of Chhattisgarh Raipur functions as an entry point for people to enjoy India's clean natural lands alongside its growing industrial base and celebrated cultural landscape. The bordering area of Raipur exists within dense forests which home diverse wildlife species and these landscapes contain scenic national parks that welcome wildlife safari visitors. The national parks offer both nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers the opportunity to experience the wild wilderness of central India. These national parks close to Raipur serve as excellent wildlife safari destinations which I will summarize now. 1. Achanakmar Wildlife Sanctuary The Achanakmar Wildlife Sanctuary represents a leading protected zone in Chhattisgarh which lies 180 kilometers away from Raipur. The sanctuary extends over more than 550 square kilometers which belongs to the UNESCO-recognized Achanakmar-Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve. Gram Panth receives animals of various types including the grand Bengal tiger among its natural inhabitants along with Indian bison (gaur) and leopards and sloth bears and various types of deer. These animals find perfect conditions to survive in the dense Sal forest ecosystems combined with the grasslands. People visiting the sanctuary can undertake jeep safaris and scheduled guided tours which educate visitors about its environmental value. 2. Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary The wildlife sanctuary called Barnawapara exists within a 100-kilometer distance from Raipur city. With 245 square kilometers the sanctuary contains both tropical dry deciduous forest spaces alongside open meadows. The sanctuary stands out for its stable tiger numbers which draws numerous visitors who want to see these creatures. As additional wildlife residents leopards, wild dogs (dholes), hyenas, sambar deer, chital, and blackbucks reside in the area. The birdwatching community will appreciate Barnawapara because more than 150 native and migratory bird species are present in the area. There are two safari options available through Safari such as Jeep rides and elephant rides. 3. Kanger Valley National Park Kanger Valley National Park stands as the 'Indian Amazon' near Raipur at a distance of 130 kilometers southeast. The park covers 200 square kilometers of land that exists inside the beautiful Kanger Valley region. A distinctive natural environment in this area combines thick woodland territories with tremendous waterfalls and karst caves along with relaxed river valleys. The protected area provides a home to multiple endangered species including tigers, leopards and flying squirrels together with the rare Bastar hill myna. Visitors should not miss out on exploring Kanger Valley's underground caves including Kutumsar Cave and Dandak Caves since these enchanting caves provide an amazing touch to safari exploration. 4. Udanti Wildlife Sanctuary The natural reserve Udanti Wildlife Sanctuary exists 140 kilometers east of Raipur in Chhattisgarh. The area of this sanctuary amounts to 245 square kilometers and its northern segment borderlands with the greater Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary to create the Sitanadi-Udanti Tiger Reserve. The sanctuary functions as an essential habitat during which tigers reside together with leopard predators and wild dogs. The wildlife habitat of Udanti Wildlife Sanctuary includes herbivores including spotted deer, barking deer and four-horned antelopes. People should visit the sanctuary because its peaceful setting along with its many diverse species creates a destination perfect for both wildlife photography and nature tourism. 5. Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary stands beside Udanti Wildlife Sanctuary within an approximate 550 square kilometer domain. Territory named Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary gained its name from the Sitanadi River that flows through it as it ensures the conservation of local wildlife. Woodland Wildlife Sanctuary attracts attention because it supports an abundant elephant population together with numerous tiger and gaur and langur individuals. Bird watchers visit Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary because they get to observe numerous flying creatures including peafowls alongside hornbills and kingfishers. Visitors can indulge in complete wilderness immersion through both Jeep safari activities and trekking paths in this area. 6. Tamor Pingla Wildlife Sanctuary The Tamor Pingla Wildlife Sanctuary stands approximately 200 km from Raipur as it resides along the junction zone of Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh. The sanctuary provides fewer visitors than other parks which results in a serene natural encounter with wildlife. The sanctuary stretches across 608 square kilometers while offering an area of mixed deciduous forests that meets undulating terrain. Visitors can spot numerous animal populations such as elephants and sloth bears in addition to various species of monkeys. Herpetologists seek a paradise at the park because it provides a lavish environment for reptiles and amphibians. 7. Guru Ghasidas National Park Guru Ghasidas National Park located on the northeastern Chhattisgarh border at 250 kilometers distance from Raipur used to be known as Sanjay National Park. At 1,440 square kilometers it ranks as one of the biggest national parks found within Chhattisgarh state. The Sanjay-Dubri Tiger Reserve includes this park which protects elephants and leopards alongside tigers within its safe boundaries. Hills and plateaus and riverine regions found throughout the area generate multiple small living spaces which help support different species. Jungle seekers can engage in tours through wildlife areas as they set up camp where they experience overnight camping. Why Choose These Parks for Wildlife Safaris? Each Indian national park maintains its own special attraction that might involve witnessing magnificent wildlife encounters or exploring historical caves or enjoying unperturbed natural serenity. The combination of these sites presents the extraordinary biodiversity of Chhattisgarh while promoting awareness about conservation. These parks enjoy excellent accessibility from Raipur which lets visitors experience weekend stays or longer vacations. Check the park operating hours and entry costs along with safari availability because these conditions change based on seasonal patterns. Visitors typically find the ideal traveling season for Achanakmar falls within the span of October to March due to pleasant tempered weather alongside increased animal visibility. Final Thoughts You can find extraordinary encounters with Indian wildlife because Raipur sits adjacent to multiple national parks. Visitors can experience irreplaceable nature adventures by visiting both Achanakmar's dense jungle territory and Kanger Valley's mystical caverns. The national parks of Chhattisgarh combine natural discovery with peaceful sanctuary so they attract experienced travelers along with nature lovers who need to break away from urban culture. You should bring your luggage and your bird watching gear to experience wilderness encounters at Chhattisgarh's unspoiled landscapes.
Arabian Post
03-07-2025
- Arabian Post
Int'l media charmed by 'China tour' amid cool summer in Hainan
The international media team immersed itself in the colorful experience that the 'cool island' of Hainan offered in summer. (Photo credit: Jing Chen) HAIKOU, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 July 2025 – This summer, journalists and photographers from the United States, Japan, South Korea, Spain, the United Arab Emirates, and other countries gathered at China's Hainan Free Trade Port, experiencing firsthand the vibrant pulse of its industrial development. For most of the media delegation, this was their first visit to Hainan. At the Boao Lecheng International Medical Tourism Pilot Zone, the team explored various medical institutions, gaining insights into the local healthcare landscape, specialized medical policies, and unique wellness programs blending traditional Chinese medicine with Western techniques. As China's only special medical zone, Lecheng collaborates with more than 180 healthcare, pharmaceutical, and medical device institutions across 20 countries, providing a series of world-class medical and healthcare services. In the first five months of this year, it welcomed more than 180,000 tourists from China, Canada, and Spain. The international media team immersed itself in the colorful experience that the 'cool island' of Hainan offered in summer. (Photo credit: Dan Sandoval) Hainan's pristine tropical rainforests and vibrant Li and Miao cultural traditions stand as its most iconic ecological and cultural hallmarks. At Haikou's Qilou Old Street, Baoting's Binglanggu Li and Miao Cultural Heritage Park, and Baoting's Shenyu Island, the media delegation was captivated by dynamic displays and exhibits of UNESCO-recognized intangible cultural heritage—such as the 3,000-year-old Li traditional techniques of spinning, dyeing, weaving, and embroidering—alongside national and provincial treasures like Hainan agarwood, coconut carving, Li pottery, boat-shaped houses, and bamboo pole dancing. ADVERTISEMENT Journalists remarked that witnessing and engaging with these time-honored crafts in person was far more striking than viewing them through photos or videos. Many showed a strong interest in Hainan agarwood, marveling at its historical significance and medicinal properties. After experiencing a Li medical massage, one reporter said that his back pain was finally relieved and that he 'should have come to Hainan earlier.' Beyond its beaches, Hainan offers a wealth of unique summer experiences that reshaped international media's perceptions: the Taoist healing, the Li long-table banquet, and refreshing forest bath on the Shenyu Island; the tropical coastal skydiving at Skydive Tarhe; the underwater suites and theme park of the Atlantis Sanya; the shopping spree in the International Duty-free Shopping Complex; the island scenery and fishermen culture in the West Island. Each destination offers distinct charms, revealing Hainan's diverse appeal. Zhang Hao, deputy director of the Sanya Tourism Board, revealed that in addition to strengthening duty-free shopping, Sanya has also prioritized low-altitude tourism and yachting in recent years. Last year alone, yachts embarked on over 120,000 sea trips, more than 10,000 visitors experienced low-altitude skydiving, and international cruise traffic, including home-port and visiting-port throughput, reached 59,200, placing Sanya among China's top destinations. According to the Hainan Department of Tourism, Culture, Radio, Television, and Sports, as China's only tropical island province and the largest Free Trade Port, Hainan enjoys the best visa-free policy in the country. In 2024, the number of inbound tourists exceeded 1 million, a record high in the past 5 years. The island has designed 10 categories of tourism products (e.g., marine tourism, high-end shopping, and healthcare) and allows ordinary passport holders from 85 countries to land without a visa. Hashtag: #HainanDepartmentofTourism,Culture,Radio,TV,andSports The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
The Sun
03-07-2025
- The Sun
Int'l media charmed by 'China tour' amid cool summer in Hainan
HAIKOU, CHINA - Media OutReach Newswire - 3 July 2025 - This summer, journalists and photographers from the United States, Japan, South Korea, Spain, the United Arab Emirates, and other countries gathered at China's Hainan Free Trade Port, experiencing firsthand the vibrant pulse of its industrial development. For most of the media delegation, this was their first visit to Hainan. At the Boao Lecheng International Medical Tourism Pilot Zone, the team explored various medical institutions, gaining insights into the local healthcare landscape, specialized medical policies, and unique wellness programs blending traditional Chinese medicine with Western techniques. As China's only special medical zone, Lecheng collaborates with more than 180 healthcare, pharmaceutical, and medical device institutions across 20 countries, providing a series of world-class medical and healthcare services. In the first five months of this year, it welcomed more than 180,000 tourists from China, Canada, and Spain. Hainan's pristine tropical rainforests and vibrant Li and Miao cultural traditions stand as its most iconic ecological and cultural hallmarks. At Haikou's Qilou Old Street, Baoting's Binglanggu Li and Miao Cultural Heritage Park, and Baoting's Shenyu Island, the media delegation was captivated by dynamic displays and exhibits of UNESCO-recognized intangible cultural heritage—such as the 3,000-year-old Li traditional techniques of spinning, dyeing, weaving, and embroidering—alongside national and provincial treasures like Hainan agarwood, coconut carving, Li pottery, boat-shaped houses, and bamboo pole dancing. Journalists remarked that witnessing and engaging with these time-honored crafts in person was far more striking than viewing them through photos or videos. Many showed a strong interest in Hainan agarwood, marveling at its historical significance and medicinal properties. After experiencing a Li medical massage, one reporter said that his back pain was finally relieved and that he 'should have come to Hainan earlier.' Beyond its beaches, Hainan offers a wealth of unique summer experiences that reshaped international media's perceptions: the Taoist healing, the Li long-table banquet, and refreshing forest bath on the Shenyu Island; the tropical coastal skydiving at Skydive Tarhe; the underwater suites and theme park of the Atlantis Sanya; the shopping spree in the International Duty-free Shopping Complex; the island scenery and fishermen culture in the West Island. Each destination offers distinct charms, revealing Hainan's diverse appeal. Zhang Hao, deputy director of the Sanya Tourism Board, revealed that in addition to strengthening duty-free shopping, Sanya has also prioritized low-altitude tourism and yachting in recent years. Last year alone, yachts embarked on over 120,000 sea trips, more than 10,000 visitors experienced low-altitude skydiving, and international cruise traffic, including home-port and visiting-port throughput, reached 59,200, placing Sanya among China's top destinations. According to the Hainan Department of Tourism, Culture, Radio, Television, and Sports, as China's only tropical island province and the largest Free Trade Port, Hainan enjoys the best visa-free policy in the country. In 2024, the number of inbound tourists exceeded 1 million, a record high in the past 5 years. The island has designed 10 categories of tourism products (e.g., marine tourism, high-end shopping, and healthcare) and allows ordinary passport holders from 85 countries to land without a visa.
