On World Lion Day 2024, Parimal Nathwani, a wildlife enthusiast, Rajya Sabha member, and Director of Corporate Affairs at Reliance Industries, released a unique audio-video song titled “Gir Gajvati Aavi Sinhni.”
Nathwani dedicated this song to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The song, written in a folk style, celebrates the majestic lioness of Gir and reflects the rich local culture of Saurashtra. It begins with a traditional doha (a type of poetic couplet) and features a rapid-paced chaupai (a type of verse).
Aditya Gadhvi provided the vocals for the song. The music, created by Kedar and Bhargav, blends tradition with fusion. The lyrics were written by renowned and young lyricist Parth Tarpar.
Gadhvi described the song as more than just music; it’s a tribute to the lioness of Gir and a celebration of our cultural heritage. He mentioned that while many songs have been written about the Asiatic lions of Gir, this is likely the first audio-visual presentation focused on the lioness.
Nathwani expressed pride in dedicating the song to PM Modi, who has made significant efforts in the conservation of Asiatic lions. The lion population in Gir has grown from 523 in 2015 to 674 in 2021.
Nathwani has also written two coffee table books about lions and released numerous videos and photographs about Gir. His recent book, “Call of the Gir,” was presented to PM Modi and includes a message from the Prime Minister.
In 2017, Nathwani published “Gir Lion: Pride of Gujarat,” featuring stunning photographs of Gir lions and highlighting the need for their conservation. This new song reaffirms his deep connection and commitment to Gir and Asiatic lions.
