Farhan Ahmad Lone, a 20-year-old wildlife photographer from Baramulla, is carving his niche by venturing into uncharted territories and capturing the diverse bird species that inhabit them. Born and raised in the picturesque Babagail village, Farhan found inspiration for his craft in the natural beauty that surrounded him.
Living in close proximity to the Kazinag National Park, which is just a few kilometers away, Farhan has dedicated himself to photographing wild birds. His explorations have taken him to various places in Baramulla, where he has captured more than 100 images of different bird species.
The son of a retired forest department employee, Farhan has been particularly drawn to the unexplored places in his region, including waterfalls like Mithwayain and Qumrinad, located in the Limber Wildlife Sanctuary—a hidden gem known to few.
Among the many species he has documented are the tree pipit, yellow hammer, Kashmiri nutcracker, green-backed tit, green finch, Kashmiri flying squirrel, and black kite.
Despite being a student at Govt. Boys Higher Secondary School in Baramulla, Farhan actively participates in the Kazinag Wildlife Defenders—a group of young volunteers dedicated to conserving the Kazinag National Park.
“My fascination with the wonders of the natural world started at a young age, spending countless hours exploring nearby woods and observing the diverse array of creatures,” Farhan shared. Over the years, this fascination blossomed into a deep passion for photography, with a determination to showcase the beauty and fragility of the environment.
Facing financial constraints and limited resources, Farhan encountered numerous obstacles. Yet, his commitment to making a difference through his lens remained unwavering. “We often travel to remote locations. The love for wildlife, wild birds, and the commitment to conservation kept the flame alive,” he remarked.
With an aim to boost eco-tourism and promote his village, Babagail, Farhan and his fellow defenders aspire to attract visitors from different parts of the country. “We want to work for the promotion of Babagail so that people from different parts of the country come here,” he expressed.
Farhan has also been witness to the sighting of Markhor, the world’s largest mountain goat, restricted to only two areas in Jammu and Kashmir: Kajinag National Park near the Line of Control and Hirpora Wildlife Sanctuary in Shopian on the slopes of the Pir Panjal mountain range. “I have seen Markhor 100 times. It is quite exciting to see the unique animal,” he shared.
In his earlier days, without a camera, Farhan captured landscape pictures with his mobile phone in his 9th grade. “There is little scope for wildlife photography. I want to explore more and more places. Earlier, my parents and friends would not support me, but today they are all supportive,” the passionate photographer affirmed.
Dedicated to showcasing the beauty of his region and village, Farhan aims to change perceptions and promote the untapped potential of the area. “Many people here are hesitant to boost wild tourism,” he observed, emphasizing his desire to alter these perspectives through his work.
