The Myth of the Wild Gaur
Megham Mountain is in danger when a powerful company begins draining its pristine lake, threatening the harmony between the land and its creatures. As the Wild Gaur struggle to survive, young Theni sets off on a courageous mission to stop the destruction. With the help of her friends and a hidden myth, she uncovers a truth that could save her home.
Overview
Megham Mountain is nestled in the Nilgiri Hills, surrounded by lush green grasslands, frothy waterfalls, deep woods, and clear streams. It is a peaceful haven where animals live in harmony with the people. The locals believe in the "Golden Web of Balance," where the loss of even one thread could destroy the mountain and topple all its creatures.
This balance is threatened when a large company begins its venture on the mountain. Their goal is clear: to drain a pristine lake and sell the water as “Fresh Mineral Water.” Theni, the daughter of the chief honey collector—a member of a tribal community deeply connected to the land—watches in dismay as the water begins to disappear. The Wild Gaur suffer as their home dries up, forcing them to wander into town in search of food and water.
Determined to save Megham Mountain and its precious creatures, Theni, with the help of her loyal friends and supportive teacher, goes on a daring adventure to stop the company. Along the way, she unravels the ancient Myth of the Wild Gaur, only to discover that the truth hidden within it is even more powerful than she had ever imagined.
Inspiration
I wrote The Myth of the Wild Gaur based on my own childhood experiences in Kodaikanal. Growing up, the Wild Gaurs were awe-inspiring creatures, even to us locals. Older residents would often warn me not to get too close, claiming that a Gaur's breath could sear human flesh. As a child, I didn’t think much of these tales, but as I grew older, I became increasingly fascinated by them. This fascination led me to incorporate local myths and stories into the book.
Another important theme I wanted to explore was the transformation of the Kodai landscape over the decades. Even as a child, I noticed that the Wild Gaurs were leaving the forest and moving into town. This shift piqued my curiosity, and it eventually inspired me to write an adventure story that raises awareness about the impact of human greed and the consequences of mankind’s actions on the wildlife and environment of Kodaikanal.
Meet the Wild Gaur
Did you know that the scientific name for the Wild Gaur, also known as the Indian Bison, is Bos gaurus? These massive creatures, found in India’s hilly regions, prefer areas with a comfortable elevation of up to 7,000 feet.
Here are some cool facts about the Wild Gaur:
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The color of their bodies can range from dark grey to a rich, chocolatey brown.
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They have unique white fur on all four legs, stretching up to their knees. It looks like they're wearing socks!
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Some larger Gaurs can weigh as much as 1,500 kilograms. That's heavier than a car!
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Did you know Gaurs are vegetarians? Their diet includes grass, plants, herbs, shrubs, flowers, fruits, and even tree bark.
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The Gaur is so special that it's the state animal of both Goa and Bihar.
Have you ever seen a Gaur’s horns? They can be pale yellow or even light green, but the tips are always black. In larger Gaurs, these horns can grow up to a whopping 45 inches long!
Visual Journey
The book is illustrated by my dear friend Ashlin Sara Paul, who has always believed in the beauty and power of my stories. Ashlin has often told me that my books have a very Studio Ghibli feel—filled with adventure and mystery, yet always wrapped in kindness, goodness, and a sense of safety.
An interesting fact is that Ashlin has never had to make any changes to the drawings. This shows how perfectly in sync we are and how deeply she believes in my stories. I am truly honored to have an illustrator like Ashlin.
Here are a couple of her beautiful illustrations from the book.
A Note for Parents and Schools
The book is illustrated by my dear friend Ashlin Sara Paul, who has always believed in the beauty and power of my stories. Ashlin has often told me that my books have a very Studio Ghibli feel—filled with adventure and mystery, yet always wrapped in kindness, goodness, and a sense of safety.
The Myth of the Wild Gaur is a wonderful read-aloud opportunity for parents and kids to share together. One reason it’s become my best seller is that it’s a quick read—perfect for today's busy kids and adults.
Despite being a short read, there’s plenty to discuss and reflect on. The characters, their actions, and how they interact with the environment is something we can all learn from. The story naturally teaches kids to be kind and resilient without being preachy. It also empowers them with the understanding that they have the agency to make their own decisions.
The book is a fun adventure that will have your child gripping the edge of their seat, while also looking up to the characters in the story. By the end, your kids will not only be entertained but will also be inspired to think both locally and globally about the world around them.
Meet A Few Characters
Here’s a glimpse of some of the characters from my book. While there are many more, these few have been carefully chosen to offer you a sneak peek into their world.
The Wild Gaur
The Wild Gaur is a majestic and fascinating creature in the book, facing a tough challenge when the lake on Megham Mountain begins to dry up. And as a special treat for readers, there's a delightful surprise in the form of a baby Wild Gaur waiting to be discovered along the way!
Theni
Theni is the protagonist of the book. She is a young girl from the honey collector tribe. With determination and courage, she spearheads the mission to protect Megham Mountain and save the Wild Gaur from losing their home.
The Manager
The manager in the book can be seen as the antagonist. But he also represents something larger—a symbol of the many corporations that establish themselves in fragile mountain ecosystems without understanding the local culture or environment. His actions reflect the broader issue of corporate indifference and the desire for profit.
Book Reviews
Zai Whitaker,
Author and Conservationist
The Myth of the Wild Gaur, apart from being a fun adventure tale with a lively protagonist, deals with several major conservation issues that we should all be reading about, young and old.
Writers like Priyadarshini are important messengers who make urgent environmental issues palatable reading for the children who shall inherit (and hopefully heal) the earth we have messed up.
Poorvaja Prakash
Founder, SkilLit Readers
The book enchants readers with its delightful storytelling, offering a refreshing mix of adventure, wonder, and insightful themes that leave a lasting impression on both children and adults.
C.P.R
Environmental Education Centre
The author has given sweet, natural Tamil names such as Theni, Kuchi, Arali, Iniyan, Malligai and Aadi, which essentially highlights her fondness for nature. The author takes everyone to the Nilgiris through ample depiction of Megham Mountains and the surrounding village. She explains succinctly how the lead characters are able to mobilize the general public for their cause. Finally, the author highlights how natural balance is restored.
Author's Notes
The author has given sweet, natural Tamil names such as Theni, Kuchi, Arali, Iniyan, Malligai and Aadi, which essentially highlights her fondness for nature. The author takes everyone to the Nilgiris through ample depiction of Megham Mountains and the surrounding village. She explains succinctly how the lead characters are able to mobilize the general public for their cause. Finally, the author highlights how natural balance is restored.