Photo : Lakshitha Karunarathna
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.
Mass wildlife tourism has commodified the tiger. Our cover story asks us to reimagine wildlife tourism to truly protect habitats and benefit local communities. The photofeature offers a chance to reflect on our place in the grand scheme of things. Also in this issue, an Interview with Green Teacher Yuvan Aves, a journey through the Valmiki Tiger Reserve, Changthang, corals off Goa’s shore, the shocking sharks and rays on our plates, and a report on the Great Backyard Bird Count!
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.
The theme of the March 2024 issue of Sanctuary Cub, David & Goliath, demonstrates that even in the natural world, the little are far from meek. The first article shows us that by fighting the good fight we can seek a better world for ourselves, through some inspiring examples. Take Action advocates for an oft-neglected group – insects. The Photofeature presents examples from nature of the small and individual, standing up to outsized challenges. Don’t miss the pangolin rescue, and more!
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