Nationwide Theatre Debut of Wildlife Documentary Film: 'Sharing the Nilgiris' Wilderness'
In a groundbreaking move for wildlife documentaries in India, "Nilgiris: A Shared Wilderness" is set to have a nationwide theatrical release on July 18, 2025. This feature-length film, focusing on India's first UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is a collaboration between Felis Films, Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies, and Dheeraj Films.
Directed by Emmy-nominated and BAFTA-winning filmmaker Sandesh Kadur, the film has already garnered international acclaim and awards for its cinematic and storytelling excellence. Kadur, the founder of Felis Creations, a Panda Award-winning production house based in Bangalore, describes the film as a story of a new wilderness where wildlife continues to adapt and thrive.
The documentary, shot in high-resolution 8K using top-tier Sony Professional and RED cameras, offers a visually stunning exploration of the Nilgiris. Rohini Nilekani, Executive Producer of the film and Chairperson of Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies, hopes the film will awaken people to the beauty and biodiversity of the Nilgiris.
Nilekani, who is also the Founder and Former Chairperson of Arghyam, a foundation for sustainable water and sanitation, and the Founder-Chairperson and chief funder of Pratham Books from 2004 to 2014, believes that witnessing the beauty of the land on the big screen inspires young minds to love, learn, and protect.
The release of "Nilgiris: A Shared Wilderness" marks a significant milestone, combining technical excellence with a message of environmental stewardship. The film will be shown in select theatres across multiple cities, indicating a broad but targeted release strategy. It is the first feature-length wildlife film in India to receive a nationwide theatrical release.
In addition to the theatrical release, the film will also be screened through exclusive, discounted student shows in major cities. Rohini Nilekani urges school principals, teachers, and parents to bring children to the theatres for a special experience. Cities included in the release are Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Mysore, Mangalore, Coimbatore, Ooty, Mumbai, Pune, Goa, Kochi, Trivandrum, Delhi, and others.
The film's release aligns with the NEP 2020 vision of encouraging experiential and environmental learning. With its focus on conservation and the need for coordinated efforts to protect the region's biodiversity, "Nilgiris: A Shared Wilderness" promises to be an engaging and enlightening experience for viewers of all ages.
To get a glimpse of the film, viewers can watch the trailer at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aOwcirOtD5c. The trailer offers a tantalising preview of the stunning visuals and compelling storytelling that await audiences in July 2025.
- The academic field may incorporate "Nilgiris: A Shared Wilderness" into various environmental studies courses, providing students with a unique opportunity for lifelong learning and theory-to-practice application within the context of sustainable living.
- In an effort to foster a culture of education and self-development, the film's makers have devised a learning module for schools, offering a structured approach to discussing the Nilgiris' biodiversity and the importance of environmental stewardship.
- With the release of "Nilgiris: A Shared Wilderness," the concept of home-and-garden takes on a new dimension, highlighting the interconnectedness of all living beings and our responsibility towards maintaining a sustainable living environment.
- News outlets and opinion leaders in the field of education and environment may cover the film's release extensively, drawing attention to the critical issue of wildlife conservation and the impact such documentaries can have on public awareness and opinion.
- By showcasing "Nilgiris: A Shared Wilderness" in select theatres, the country's lifestyle and entertainment industries are collaborating to create positive change and raise public consciousness about the importance of environmental conservation and lifelong learning.
