Some images are so extraordinary that they seem to belong in the pages of a fantastical storybook. Yet, this one is entirely real. A stunning photograph captured by Dhritiman Mukherjee reveals a rare and enchanting moment: a male gharial crocodile gliding through a river with 100 tiny hatchlings carefully balanced on his back. It’s a breathtaking glimpse into the wild, and one that sheds light on the fragile state of this endangered species.
A Rare Scene in the Sacred Ganges River
The Ganges River, revered as sacred by millions, is also a vital ecosystem for countless species. Among its inhabitants is the gharial, a critically endangered crocodilian with a distinctively long, slender snout. Mukherjee, a renowned wildlife photographer, spent weeks in a wildlife sanctuary along the river, patiently observing and immersing himself in the landscape. His perseverance was rewarded with a truly unique shot—a male gharial, surrounded by his offspring, ferrying them across the river.
Unlike other crocodiles, gharials cannot carry their young in their mouths due to their narrow snouts. Instead, they’ve evolved a remarkable strategy: the father becomes a living raft, giving his hatchlings a safe vantage point as they navigate the unpredictable currents. It’s a scene that highlights not only the adaptability of these creatures but also the powerful bond between parent and offspring in the wild.
Fatherhood in the Gharial World
In the crocodilian family, it’s not common to see males take such an active role in raising their young. But for gharials, this behavior is essential for survival. With fewer than 650 adult gharials remaining in the wild, every hatchling counts. Conservationists have noted that gharials face mounting challenges, including habitat destruction, pollution, and dwindling prey populations.
The Chambal River, home to the largest surviving population of gharials, is one of the last strongholds for this species. Here, around 500 gharials are engaged in a battle for survival. Each successful breeding season represents a beacon of hope, and moments like this, where a father safeguards his young, underscore the resilience of this species.
A Photograph That Captures the Soul of the Wild
Mukherjee’s image is more than a striking wildlife moment—it’s a poignant reminder of the beauty and fragility of our natural world. His dedication to his craft, spending weeks in challenging conditions to capture the perfect shot, is evident in the composition and emotion of the photo. The image not only highlights the strength of gharial fathers but also brings attention to the urgent need for their conservation.
Recognized globally, this photograph was shortlisted for the Wildlife Photographer of the Year award and even earned a spot in a prestigious competition hosted by the Natural History Museum. Among thousands of entries, it stood out as a testament to both the photographer’s skill and the remarkable scene he captured.
A Reminder of Nature’s Fragility and Strength
This story resonates deeply, not just with conservationists but with anyone who appreciates the delicate balance of life. It’s a reminder that even the most powerful creatures, like the gharial, rely on the strength of their ecosystems—and on us—to thrive. Watching these hatchlings cling to their father’s back, you can’t help but marvel at their resilience and the profound care that ensures their survival.
Mukherjee’s photograph invites us to pause and reflect on the beauty of the natural world and the responsibility we all share in preserving it. In a world where so much is fleeting, this image of a father and his 100 hatchlings stands as a symbol of hope, strength, and the enduring bonds of family in the wild.
