In the dense evergreen forests of Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary, Kollur (Udupi District), I had the pleasure of birding with Jayaprakash Sir, a respected judge by profession and a passionate bird watcher and photography lover at heart.

As we walked beneath the tall canopy, sunlight filtered through the leaves, creating patterns of gold and green. Suddenly, a flash of azure darted through the shade — the elegant Black-naped Monarch. Its graceful movements and soft trilling notes added melody to the still forest air.

We stood silently, admiring its royal blue beauty as it flitted from branch to branch, a symbol of calm and focus — much like Jayaprakash Sir himself.

A lesson in nature: every encounter carries wisdom — of patience, harmony, and the quiet dignity of life.