“Saving the Bone-swallower”: A Tale of Endangered Storks and Community Conservation

In the realm of wildlife conservation, every story is a testament to resilience, ingenuity, and the indomitable spirit of those who strive to protect our planet’s most vulnerable inhabitants. “Saving the Bone-swallower” by Mayuresh Hendre is one such tale, a captivating narrative that sheds light on the plight of the endangered Greater Adjutant storks and the remarkable efforts to save them from the brink of extinction.

Mayuresh Hendre is a dynamic individual, blending creativity with a positive mindset in every endeavor. With a passion for wildlife and media, he’s a natural history photographer, wildlife filmmaker, and seasoned video creator with over 8 years of industry experience. Currently pursuing MA Wildlife Filmmaking at UWE, Bristol, Mayuresh aims to leverage his skills to make a global impact and preserve our natural heritage. Whether working independently or as part of a team, his dedication and technical expertise shine through in every project.

Mayuresh Hendre’s documentary delves into the fascinating and often overlooked role of the endangered Greater Adjutant stork within an urban ecosystem situated on a landfill in northeast India. Contrary to common perceptions of landfills as purely wastelands, this documentary sheds light on the unexpected ecological significance of such sites.

Through stunning cinematography and insightful narration, the film highlights how these majestic birds have adapted to and thrived in this seemingly inhospitable environment. It challenges preconceived notions about urban landscapes and showcases the resilience of wildlife in the face of human encroachment.

By focusing on the Greater Adjutant stork, an endangered species, the documentary underscores the importance of conservation efforts even in unconventional habitats. It prompts viewers to reconsider their understanding of urban ecology and recognize the interconnectedness between human activities and wildlife survival.

Overall, Mayuresh Hendre’s documentary serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience of nature and the need for conservation initiatives to protect and preserve biodiversity in all types of environments, including urban areas.

At the heart of “Saving the Bone-swallower” is the inspiring journey of Purnima Devi Barman as she embarks on a mission to save the last remaining birds. Armed with determination and a deep sense of responsibility, she rallies an army of rural Assamese women, empowering them with a new source of livelihood while simultaneously championing the cause of conservation.

But “Saving the Bone-swallower” is more than just a story of conservation—it is a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives and the transformative impact of grassroots activism. It showcases how individuals, armed with passion and determination, can affect meaningful change and safeguard the biodiversity that sustains us all.

As the film delves into the lives of these endangered storks, it serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent need to protect our planet’s precious wildlife. Through their captivating journey, we are reminded of the delicate balance of nature and the responsibility we all share in preserving it for future generations.

In honor of his exceptional efforts in promoting wildlife conservation and sustainable tourism, we applaud Mayuresh Hendre and the team behind “Saving the Bone-Swallower” for winning the prestigious award for Best Short Film at the Wildlife Tourism Conclave and Awards 2024 held at Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Mumbai!