Wildlife Photography and Animal Rescue in Mumbai
I am Karan, a wildlife photographer and rescuer. My work bridges the gap between our urban lives and the wild neighbors who share our space. Here is a look at the stories I capture through my lens and my hands-on rescue missions.
This is my life in a nutshell: a blend of hands-on wildlife rescue, patient wildlife photography, and passionate education. Every day brings a new challenge and a new story to tell.
Here I am with a rescued Indian Rock Python before its release. Following in my father's footsteps, I've dedicated my life to this work through our NGO, Aasha: The Hope for Animals Welfare Trust.
Behind the scenes of a photoshoot with an Indian Spectacled Cobra. Using specialized equipment like a macro diffuser allows me to capture stunning details safely and respectfully.
Handling a juvenile Monitor Lizard. These reptiles are also common in urban areas and are a protected species. My work extends to all animals in need of rescue.
Where does my passion take me? To forests, streams, and grasslands, always searching for wildlife and the perfect moment to capture their story through my lens.
Sometimes it's just about being out there, walking through the streams and forests, and connecting with the natural world. This is where I feel most at home.
The monsoon brings out amphibians like this vibrant Indian Bull Frog. I love capturing these seasonal moments that showcase the incredible biodiversity around us.
About this collection
My camera is a tool for conservation, not just art. I use specialized macro gear to get close to subjects like the Indian Spectacled Cobra without causing them stress, and I bring that same patient approach to every rescue call with Aasha Trust. Whether I am removing a snake from a car bonnet or documenting birds during the monsoon, I prioritize the welfare of the animal above everything else.
Behind the Lens and in the Field
Photography is how I show people what they often miss. During the monsoon, when Mumbai comes alive, I spend hours waiting for the right light to capture amphibians like the Bull Frog or the intricate patterns of a Green Vine Snake. It is not just about the final image. It is about understanding their behavior. I have spent years learning how to approach animals safely, a skill that translates directly into my work as a rescuer.
Why Rescue Matters
Wildlife rescue is not a job for me, it is a way to coexist. When I get a call from someone in Powai or Aarey Colony, they are usually terrified. They see a danger where there is just an animal looking for food or shelter. I go in, remove the animal using professional stainless steel hooks, and ensure it is released in a safe, Forest Department-approved habitat. I am not just moving a snake, I am resolving a conflict so that both the human and the animal can be safe.
Conservation Awareness
My work also involves public education. People often call me panicked about a 'venomous' snake, only for me to find a harmless Rat Snake. By sharing these photos and stories, I hope to replace fear with knowledge. If you spot a wild animal, remember: Ghabraayein nahi (Do not panic). Keep your distance and call for help. My goal is to ensure you feel confident and safe whenever wildlife shows up at your doorstep.
Karan Solanki
I am Karan. Wildlife has been my world since I was eight, following in my father’s footsteps. Today, I am either out in the field with my camera to capture a fleeting moment in the wild, or I am rushing to a rescue call in Mumbai to help a snake get home safely.
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