New Delhi: Manish Mundra—a National award-winning filmmaker and founder of Drishyam films, has recently launched his latest coffee table book, ‘Wild Africa: Through My Lens‘, in New Delhi’s booklover’s haven, The Kunzum cafe. On the evening of September 13, 2025, the filmmakers’ journey to a photographer was celebrated.
Manish is a man with too many talents to count, a filmmaker, artist, poet and now a photographer. The event featured a discussion with Parthiv Shah and was moderated by Kena Shree. More than a photography collection, this book reflects his emotions and love for the country. He has graced us with the untamed beauty of the African wilderness. This is not just a piece of art; it is advocacy and introspection.
Manish Mundra’s Journey and Vision Behind Wild Africa
For Mundra, starting this project does not mean an exit from filmmaking but exploring another form of expression. His photographs show us landscapes and African wildlife, while delivering the message of conservation.
When asked how he copes with criticism from professional photographers, he said, “Art is not about conforming to perfection but staying true to oneself. I did not share it with the expectation that it’ll be perfect, I wanted to share what I liked and thought was worth sharing”
With Wild Africa, Mundra invites people to pause, reflect, and embrace the beauty that is all around us.
The event in itself was multifaceted, with questions, doubts, and praises being raised from every corner. Though one thing he clarified for sure was that this book did not mean a switch; it meant a continuation of what he already knew—art.
Photography is just another one of his artistic expressions, similar to what he does in poetry and filmmaking. He also shared how his aim was never to create a flawless book that was perfect by definition. All he wished to do was share what he saw and experienced in Africa himself. Adding to this, he mentioned how he does not let the professionals get to him, since they exist in every field and shouldn’t define one’s path. The pictures in the book advocate for wildlife protection; they show us the responsibility of being human. He even advised aspiring creators to stop overthinking their steps; instead, just take them.
Wild Africa is a testimony to how passion and art can coexist with a successful career. Manish Mundra’s work goes beyond photography—it is an invitation to reconnect with nature and oneself. His philosophy is that of being authentic rather than being perfect. The book’s breathtaking visuals also highlight the urgency for conservation.