Nagpur: Amravati-based wildlife and bird photographer and homoeopathy practitioner Dr Tushar Ambadkar has won first prize in the prestigious contest organised by National Geographic India. His striking photograph of two Wood Sandpiper birds fighting for territory earned top honours in the ‘Capture in Motion’ single photo category, standing out among thousands of entries from across the country.The award-winning image, captured during the winters of 2022 at the Bor Dam wetland, impressed the jury with its precise timing, composition and natural elegance. The photograph will be featured in official albums, calendars and digital platforms of National Geographic, offering Ambadkar both national recognition and global exposure. Notably, this was the first time Ambadkar participated in a big-scale competition.
Ambadkar, an advanced homoeopathy practitioner, began wildlife and bird photography in 2011 at the age of 24, along with his friend Dr Prajak Raul. Speaking to TOI about his journey from medicine to cameras, Ambadkar said that what started as a way to relieve work stress and practice meditation gradually transformed into a serious passion. Ambadkar says the winning shot required careful pre-visualisation and immense patience — qualities essential in bird photography. “I often venture out in the woods four to five times a week, armed with my camera. Apart from that, I try to spend my holidays trying to capture the serene chaos of wildlife,” he said.Balancing both professions with equal dedication, Ambadkar has spent nearly 15 years honing his craft. His work has previously appeared in reputed publications such as Asian Photography and Smart Photography magazines. He also mentors aspiring photographers through field training sessions.Reflecting on his journey, Dr Ambadkar described the award as a milestone that validates years of persistence, patience and passion for wildlife photography.
