HUBBALLI : The wildlife fraternity in Karnataka mourned the death of TNA Perumal, an avid wildlife expert and photographer.
His pictures taken during 1960s and 70s still serve as lessons for wildlife photographers. He left behind a large number of students in wildlife photographers, forest officials and young fans in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala. At the age of 86, Perumal was still actively teaching photography to youngsters.
Having worked in a mining company owned by the Maharaja of Sandur - M Y Ghorpade - Perumal became a trusted aide for the king who loved wildlife photography. Perumal travelled Karnataka, exploring birds and caught the flora and fauna through his lens. His photograph of an owl carrying its kill was shot at Ramanagara hills.
“Perumal was like Dronacharya for all photographers in India. He encouraged young talent and shared tricks of photography with no hesitation. He shot some of the most amazing frames when there were hardly any good equipment available for wildlife photography.
One can walk through his pictures to understand his knowledge about the right lighting and framing,” recalls N P Jayan, a wildlife photographer.
Perumal also wrote many important books. His book on butterflies and field guide to wildlife areas are most revered books among wildlife photographers.
“His photographs were by far the best in our country. It’s a big loss to the photography fraternity and of course, the Perumal family,” said Praveen Siddannavar, wildlife photographer and Vice President, IWCT.