Delhi, August 10, 2026: Marking World Lion Day 2026, Shri Parimal Nathwani, Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha, has released ‘Gir ki Amulya Dharohar,’ a documentary that chronicles Gir’s conservation journey, showcasing the broader story of the preservation of the Majestic Asiatic lion, the role of local communities, and the work of those involved in protecting its habitat.
The documentary pays tribute to the majestic lion commanding its realm, while placing a special focus on the lionesses of Gir. Their vital role in raising cubs and sustaining the next generation is central to the species’ continued repopulation. It traces generations of coexistence between wildlife and the Maldhari community, alongside the work of forest officials, frontline staff, and trackers. The work of these frontline teams, together with conservation practices such as protecting breeding habitats from human disturbance, has helped create conditions in which lions and their cubs can survive, reproduce and expand their range.
Its release coincides with a significant phase in Gujarat’s conservation efforts. Over the last decade, the Asiatic lion population has grown by more than 70%, reaching 891 in 2025, while the number of adult lionesses has risen to 330. The species’ range now extends across around 35,000 square kilometers, covering 58 talukas in 11 districts of Saurashtra. Barda, in particular, is emerging as a second home for the Asiatic lion, reflecting the species’ remarkable adaptability to new landscapes beyond Gir. Their rising numbers also bring a responsibility to provide the lions with a safe environment as their range expands. Respecting their space and avoiding unnecessary disturbance are essential to coexistence. Leaving these magnificent creatures unprovoked and free from human harassment ensures they have the vital space needed to engage in their natural behaviors and thrive across this expanding landscape.
Speaking on the release, Shri Parimal Nathwani, Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha, said, “This extraordinary conservation success is fundamentally driven by the vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and the unwavering dedication of our forest officials and frontline teams. Together with researchers and local communities, they have given the Majestic Asiatic lion a stronger future. Having visited Gir for more than 35 years, I have seen this conservation journey closely. As their territory expands, the next phase must be about safeguarding the Asiatic lions and their pride. By protecting their habitat, respecting their space, and ensuring that people who share this landscape understand their responsibility towards wildlife, we can ensure the gains of conservation endure for generations. Through Gir ki Amulya Dharohar, I wanted to document this journey and carry that responsibility forward.”
About Gir ki Amulya Dharohar
Gir ki Amulya Dharohar is a documentary by Shri Parimal Nathwani on the ecological significance of the Gir landscape, the conservation journey of the Asiatic lion, and the relationship between wildlife, local communities and conservation authorities.
About Shri Parimal Nathwani
Shri Parimal Nathwani is a wildlife enthusiast and has been closely associated with Gir and the conservation of the Asiatic lion. His earlier work includes Gir Gajavti Aavi Sinhan, a song paying tribute to the lioness of Gir, and Jay-Veeru Ni Jodi, a song dedicated to one of Gir’s most celebrated lion pairs, along with the documentary Jay-Veeru Ni Amar Gatha. He is also a Member of the Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Science and Technology, Environment, Forests and Climate Change.
