Book Description

Rendezvous: The Forbidden Land of the Nicobar Islands takes the reader on a tour through the isolated and exotic Nicobar Islands, a rare treat as the islands even today are difficult to access and visitors are restricted. This group of islands, an archipelago in the Bay of Bengal, is rich in rainforests, sandy beaches, marine life, bird life and home to a mix of human cultures, including little known indigenous groups. Between 1982 to 1985 the author served as police chief of the Nicobar Islands. In this position he travelled extensively throughout the islands and came to know tribal chiefs, tribal customs and participated in tribal celebrations. A keen observer of human nature the author delivers an insider’s view of life in the police service dealing with poaching on the high seas, rogue crocodiles, and the absurdities of bureaucracy and officialdom. He brings a naturalist’s sensitivity to his observations of the diverse bird life, marine life and geography of the archipelago. Told through a lively set of stories, these recollections are a valuable snapshot of the time and will be of interest to naturalists, historians, anthropologists and, of course, armchair travellers.