Deosai: Land of the Giant

I had dreamed of being on Deosai since 1984. Eventually got there in the summer of 1990. It was every bit like the descriptions I had read in 19th century travel and exploration literature: a vast open treeless expanse rolling in every direction until it ran into the rocky crags on its periphery. I was hooked. Thereafter I returned several times, mainly to be with the Himalayan Wildlife Foundation team working on the conservation of bears and other wildlife.

The text of this book was written in 2004. But never having considered myself a real photographer, I waited and waited and waited for the photography to materialise. Eventually my friend Nadeem Khawar, the well-known nature and wildlife photographer, who I call Guru, agreed to spend three months on Deosai. That was the summer of 2010 and Nadeem came back with the most priceless imagery ever.

I have attempted to tell the history and fable of this place whose history is until now unknown to the common person. As well as that, the bears which are the plateau’s signature species and have long been under great threat, are focused on.

If you ever wondered what the name Deosai means, you have to read the book. Although it is another thing that since I devised the title Land of the Giant, it has been used by others without so much as a thank you. As for the photography, I have to admit that my text is completely overshadowed by Guru’s work.

A lively smile and bright colours symbolise the spirit of Baltistan

My gratitude for Sang e Meel who are publishing this work is, as always, immense. Many thanks to M/s Niaz Ahmad, Afzaal and Ali Kamran. And of course a thank you to Aamir Ali who produced this eye-catching design.

Note: 'Deosai: Land of the Giant' is now available at Sang e Meel  [042-3722-0100].

Related: Other Books