Sanctuary Asia began its journey one quiet evening in 1980. Sitting around Fateh Singh Rathore’s campfire under the banyan tree outside Jogi Mahal, Ranthambhore, Bittu Sahgal made an impulsive promise to his mentor that on his return to Mumbai he would start a wildlife magazine and galvanise urban Indians in support of the country’s wilds.
The first issue rolled out in October 1981, with no business plan, no editorial experience and no capital. Since then, Sanctuary has been chronicling India’s natural history and shaping conservation discourse without having missed a single issue despite wars, social strife and economic meltdowns. It is published monthly, with every alternate month’s publication dedicated to young readers.
In 2015, the foundation was established to manipulate the magazine’s wide network of conservationists, naturalists, photographers, writers and editors who run the several projects, campaigns and events that thrive under the Sanctuary brand. The foundation’s reach spans policy, advocacy, science, on-ground support for field workers and environmental education.
At the heart of our purpose lies the conviction that the economies of nations sit on a foundation of stable ecosystems. Sanctuary envisions a world with abundant biodiversity, a sustainable climate and an equitable future for one and all.
Read the latest issue.
Stalwarts share what they wish should guide the course of India’s environmental (and economic) future. A photofeature on Sanjay Gandhi National Park and the subcontinent’s avifauna through photos. A report on the fight to save a million trees in biodiversity-rich Hasdeo. A trip to Assam’s Raimona National Park. Trail bonnet macaques. Learn about the importance of natural history to get beautiful shots. And finally, take action to protect trees from the axe!
Encouraged by the support it received, three years after the first edition of Sanctuary Asia came out, a second magazine was launched in 1984. Sanctuary Cub is the first and still the only children’s nature magazine in India. With an aim to instill respect and concern for the environment and wildlife in young children, for many young Indians, Cub continues to be their first introduction to the wild and wonderful world of nature.
Currently edited by Tara Sahgal, Sanctuary Cub aims to inculcate in children an urgency to take action and the need to create a positive change in a society that gives little thought to its rapidly depleting biodiversity.
Read the latest issue.
Dive into the world of corals! Young scuba divers share their inspiration and passion for marine conservation, while corals in Goa are rescued and restored. Read about how the threat to corals is impacting life not only in the ocean, but on land too. Meet a marine biologist and dive professional, and our dedicated Kids for Tigers coordinators. Take a pause with the gorgeous coral photofeature. And don’t miss our magnificent poster at the heart of the magazine! Happy reading and diving!