Lessons from India
Our Founder Oli Broom recently returned from India, having visited the national parks of Pench and Kanha before enjoying a few days in Delhi. It wasn't Oli's first visit to the country, as he previously biked across India in 20010 as part of his cycle across the world but, in such a vast and varied land, there is so much to discover on each trip. Here Oli shares some thoughts following his most recent visit to India.
Central India
It isn’t what you think
I spent a week in the Central Highlands. Despite being the exact centre of India - a fact marked by the Zero Mile Stone in Nagpur, the point from which the British mapped out all of India - this is not a place of grand palaces or bustling tourism. Instead, the heart of the subcontinent is a tapestry of teak and sal forests, tribal lands and tiger territory. It is a place of peace; and of course, a slower pace of life exists here than in India's metropolises.
The Gond tribe are landowners
Travelling through Kanha, I met many people from the Gond tribe. One of the largest tribal groups in India, the Gond have their own language and a rich culture of arts, crafts, dance and music. They are not marginalised forest-dwellers but prosperous landowners. Their stories and experiences are woven into the land, and their relationship with nature runs deep.
Tigers are not mythical here
Our camp manager, Rohit, sees them on his daily commute. These communities live alongside the world’s most elusive big cat and, at least in my experience, seem quietly unfazed.
India’s forests are still wild
Animals need undisturbed habitats for breeding, hunting, raising young, and general survival. Excessive tourism can stress animals, disrupt their natural behaviors, and even lead to human-wildlife conflict. It is therefore by design that as much as 80% of Pench's forests remain off-limits to tourism. This seems to me to be a testament to its strong commitment to wildlife conservation.
Swim where you can
The rivers of central India are boulder strewn and beautiful. When the jungle heat rises, there’s nothing like plunging into cool, clean water before continuing your journey on two wheels.
Indian Culture
You can only marry when the moon allows
Celestial rhythms guide daily life here. Weddings follow the lunar calendar and auspicious dates are set by astrologers, not diaries.
“What is your good name?”
When you're in India and someone asks your name, don't be surprised if they say, "What is your good name?" This isn't an accidental phrasing. It stems from the Hindi word "shubh," which translates to pure, auspicious, or blessed. It's a beautiful example of how language can carry cultural warmth, turning a basic enquiry into a subtle blessing.
Indian films are gripping and wild
India's cinema is a vibrant reflection of the country itself: as layered and unpredictable as its diverse landscapes and cultures. From the deep, tribal mysticism of Kantara to the edge-of-your-seat intensity of Manjummel Boys, it's a cinematic journey unlike any other.
Delhi
Cafe Lota is a Delhi institution
Within the grounds of Delhi's Crafts Museum, Cafe Lota offers a delightful escape with its elevated regional cuisine. It stands out as one of Delhi's culinary gems, consistently drawing equal praise and enthusiasm from both locals and international visitors alike.
Sikh temples feed thousands daily
Delhi's Sikh temples embody a profound spirit of generosity, feeding thousands daily. At the Bangla Sahib Gurudwara, the communal kitchen tradition ensures that anyone, irrespective of their background or beliefs, can enjoy a vegetarian meal free of charge. I found it very moving.
Delhi has shopping worth the rupees
For those with rupees to spend, Delhi offers a shopping experience worth the effort. Spots like Anokhi in Khan Market and Lodhi Market are treasure troves of beautiful textiles, clever homewares, and unique finds. And don't miss the bustling queues outside the South Indian vegetarian joints – a sure sign that the incredible food inside is absolutely worth every moment of the wait. Me? I stumbled across Lodhi Sports and bought a new cricket bat. Ready for the summer now.
If this was the UK, there’d be civil war
Amidst what appears to be utter chaos on Delhi's roads, you'll find surprisingly little road rage. Somehow, the city's intricate dance just works. There’s an undeniable grace in the madness, a rhythmic flow that defies logic and left me marvelling at how it all keeps going.
If you'd like to discover wildlife and enjoy a slower pace of life in India, join us on our Tigers and Tribes of Central India journey. Contact us to find out more.
