In the forests of Maharashtra's Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve, women in khaki uniforms are increasingly becoming the trusted faces leading wildlife safaris—shifting a profession once dominated by men and enriching the visitor experience with their unique skills and warmth.
- Women started officially guiding safaris in Tadoba in 2015.
- ProNat training program opened pathways for women in wildlife careers.
- Today, dozens of women guide safaris, enhancing conservation efforts.
What happened
Traditionally, leading safaris in India’s forests was considered a male occupation, but since 2015, women have begun breaking into this role at Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve in Maharashtra. Six pioneering women, including Shahnaz Suleman Baig and Maya Jengathe, were appointed by the forest department to lead safaris, despite initial skepticism both from male guides and their communities.
This change was supported further in 2018 by the launch of ProNat, a professional training program open to all aspiring wildlife enthusiasts aiming for leadership roles. This initiative has enabled over 270 alumni, including 35 women, to pursue careers in national parks and tiger reserves across India, offering a clear and formal pathway into the wildlife sector.
Why it feels good
The inclusion of women in safari guiding is not only breaking gender barriers but also enriching the experience for visitors. Women bring a unique energy, warmth, and communication style to wildlife tourism, fostering deeper connections between tourists and nature. For the women themselves, the opportunity represents independence, pride, and a chance to follow their lifelong passion for the jungle.
These trailblazing guides like Baig and Whadai recount moments of personal courage and connection in the wild, including eye-to-eye encounters with tigresses. Their success challenges traditional stereotypes, inspires local communities, and highlights the importance of diverse perspectives in conservation efforts.
What to enjoy or watch next
Visitors to Tadoba can now enjoy safaris led by skilled women guides who are deeply knowledgeable about the forest and its inhabitants, making each trip both educational and memorable. Meanwhile, the ongoing expansion of training programs like ProNat continues to nurture the next generation of women naturalists, filmmakers, and conservation leaders.
For those interested in wildlife careers or conservation, following these emerging female leaders can be inspiring. Their stories are opening doors for more inclusive participation in India’s protected forests, an uplifting trend that promises to enhance both tourism and preservation of the country’s majestic tigers.