2 00:00:03,290 --> 00:00:05,114 India's great desert, 4 00:00:09,340 --> 00:00:13,140 baking heat, desiccating winds, 5 00:00:13,140 --> 00:00:15,830 and near-permanent drought have earned 6 00:00:15,830 --> 00:00:17,893 this unforgiving land another name, 7 00:00:19,250 --> 00:00:21,288 the Region of Death. 9 00:00:23,310 --> 00:00:25,213 But this desert is full of life. 10 00:00:27,010 --> 00:00:29,410 It's a hotspot for nature, 11 00:00:29,410 --> 00:00:32,603 home to some of the toughest and rarest creatures on earth. 12 00:00:34,920 --> 00:00:37,320 Millions of people live here, too. 13 00:00:37,320 --> 00:00:39,473 It's the most crowded desert in the world. 14 00:00:40,920 --> 00:00:42,830 Humans and animals have forged 15 00:00:42,830 --> 00:00:45,363 incredible alliances to survive. 16 00:00:47,230 --> 00:00:49,664 This is no ordinary wilderness. 18 00:00:51,470 --> 00:00:55,833 This is the Thar, the desert of life. 24 00:01:37,850 --> 00:01:40,993 The Thar Desert, a land of contrasts. 25 00:01:42,000 --> 00:01:45,250 Temperature soar to over 50 degrees C. 26 00:01:45,250 --> 00:01:48,193 And less than five centimeters of rain falls each year. 27 00:01:49,250 --> 00:01:51,550 It's one of the harshest places on the planet. 28 00:01:54,000 --> 00:01:58,030 Yet somehow, life has existed here for millennia, 29 00:01:58,030 --> 00:02:00,523 and not just typically tough desert characters. 30 00:02:03,110 --> 00:02:06,550 Beyond the dunes, lies a tapestry of landscapes, 31 00:02:06,550 --> 00:02:08,943 woodlands, desert scrub, 32 00:02:09,840 --> 00:02:13,340 salt pans, grassy plains, 33 00:02:13,340 --> 00:02:16,878 dry forests, and even cities. 34 00:02:16,878 --> 00:02:20,160 (dramatic music) 35 00:02:20,160 --> 00:02:21,890 These habitats provide homes 36 00:02:21,890 --> 00:02:23,817 for an incredible array of animals. 37 00:02:23,817 --> 00:02:26,567 (dramatic music) 38 00:02:28,800 --> 00:02:31,515 Humans have flourished here since the Stone Age, 39 00:02:31,515 --> 00:02:34,950 (dramatic music) 40 00:02:34,950 --> 00:02:37,103 tribes with colorful histories, 41 00:02:39,340 --> 00:02:40,633 ancient traditions, 42 00:02:42,220 --> 00:02:44,383 and a spiritual connection with nature. 43 00:02:47,457 --> 00:02:49,390 (people laughing) 44 00:02:49,390 --> 00:02:52,180 The world's most crowded desert is home 45 00:02:52,180 --> 00:02:54,130 to over 80 people per square kilometer, 46 00:02:55,160 --> 00:02:57,403 compared with just 7 in the Sahara. 47 00:03:01,090 --> 00:03:04,250 Together, people and animals have changed the face 48 00:03:04,250 --> 00:03:05,693 of this desolate landscape. 49 00:03:07,680 --> 00:03:09,633 In some places, it's unrecognizable. 50 00:03:12,007 --> 00:03:14,050 (dramatic music) 51 00:03:14,050 --> 00:03:16,003 The cities are man-made oases, 52 00:03:17,210 --> 00:03:19,613 perfect for light-fingered opportunists. 53 00:03:22,930 --> 00:03:25,310 But with so many mouths to feed, 54 00:03:25,310 --> 00:03:27,103 even here, life is tough. 55 00:03:31,100 --> 00:03:32,810 All the desert's inhabitants struggle 56 00:03:32,810 --> 00:03:35,024 to find food and water. 57 00:03:35,024 --> 00:03:37,774 (dramatic music) 58 00:03:38,985 --> 00:03:43,100 Their lives dictated by heat and drought. 59 00:03:43,100 --> 00:03:46,330 Despite the difficulty simply trying to survive, 60 00:03:46,330 --> 00:03:48,920 the Thar is still overcrowded. 61 00:03:48,920 --> 00:03:52,350 And miraculously, this scorched land continues 62 00:03:52,350 --> 00:03:54,183 to support a wealth of life. 63 00:03:56,200 --> 00:03:59,870 Exploring India's great desert reveals its hidden secrets 64 00:03:59,870 --> 00:04:03,490 and the unique spiritual relationships that exist here. 65 00:04:03,490 --> 00:04:04,723 On these sacred sands, 66 00:04:05,660 --> 00:04:09,070 the lives of man and beast are so closely entwined, 67 00:04:09,070 --> 00:04:11,561 but they owe their survival to each other. 68 00:04:11,561 --> 00:04:14,311 (dramatic music) 69 00:04:17,634 --> 00:04:18,570 (air whooshes) 70 00:04:18,570 --> 00:04:22,320 India's desert covers 200,000 square kilometers 71 00:04:22,320 --> 00:04:24,453 across the far northwest of the country. 72 00:04:27,110 --> 00:04:29,873 Taking in the states of northern Gujarat and Rajasthan, 73 00:04:30,800 --> 00:04:34,260 the desert engulfs 10% of India's land mass, 74 00:04:34,260 --> 00:04:37,363 before sweeping north across the border into Pakistan. 75 00:04:39,073 --> 00:04:40,450 (solemn music) 76 00:04:40,450 --> 00:04:43,580 This border country is the empty heart 77 00:04:43,580 --> 00:04:45,130 of an otherwise crowded desert. 78 00:04:47,610 --> 00:04:49,703 It's effectively a giant dust bowl. 79 00:04:49,703 --> 00:04:54,703 (solemn music) (wind whistling) 80 00:04:55,700 --> 00:04:58,040 Billions of sand grains are whipped up 81 00:04:58,040 --> 00:05:00,500 by 100 kilometer-an-hour winds. 82 00:05:00,500 --> 00:05:04,453 They form immense sand dunes, some almost a kilometer high. 83 00:05:06,960 --> 00:05:08,333 Some never stop moving. 84 00:05:09,440 --> 00:05:11,513 Others have stood for thousands of years. 85 00:05:13,330 --> 00:05:15,550 Dune ridges ripple like waves 86 00:05:15,550 --> 00:05:18,126 in a seemingly endless sea of sand. 87 00:05:18,126 --> 00:05:20,709 (solemn music) 88 00:05:26,211 --> 00:05:27,350 (air whooshes) 89 00:05:27,350 --> 00:05:29,520 With no shade or water, 90 00:05:29,520 --> 00:05:32,253 few animals make their home on these shifting sands. 91 00:05:35,530 --> 00:05:36,700 (camel grunts) 92 00:05:36,700 --> 00:05:38,673 This is a land of nomads. 93 00:05:41,010 --> 00:05:43,360 Many of the region's tribes move through the desert 94 00:05:43,360 --> 00:05:45,460 in a constant search for water 95 00:05:45,460 --> 00:05:47,263 and grazing for their livestock. 96 00:05:49,950 --> 00:05:52,820 And every spring, they travel from the far corners 97 00:05:52,820 --> 00:05:56,480 of the Thar, to a small town at its heart, Nagaur. 98 00:05:58,114 --> 00:06:00,107 (people chattering) 99 00:06:00,107 --> 00:06:01,480 20,000 people gather 100 00:06:01,480 --> 00:06:05,203 for the desert's largest livestock market, the Nagaur Fair. 101 00:06:08,120 --> 00:06:10,920 They come to celebrate their traditional way of life 102 00:06:10,920 --> 00:06:13,636 and their ancient alliance with nature. 103 00:06:13,636 --> 00:06:16,090 (people speak in foreign language) 104 00:06:16,090 --> 00:06:17,403 These people are farmers. 105 00:06:18,270 --> 00:06:19,360 But with regular droughts, 106 00:06:19,360 --> 00:06:21,745 they can't rely on crops for food or income. 107 00:06:21,745 --> 00:06:22,850 (man speaks in foreign language) 108 00:06:22,850 --> 00:06:26,095 Instead, they owe their survival to domesticated animals. 109 00:06:26,095 --> 00:06:30,850 (people speak in foreign language) 110 00:06:30,850 --> 00:06:33,670 Because of this dependence on animal farming, 111 00:06:33,670 --> 00:06:36,100 the desert is home to 10 times more livestock 112 00:06:36,100 --> 00:06:38,264 than anywhere else in India. 113 00:06:38,264 --> 00:06:41,014 (dramatic music) 114 00:06:43,820 --> 00:06:46,230 Camels are central to desert life, 115 00:06:46,230 --> 00:06:48,480 because they can withstand the intense heat 116 00:06:48,480 --> 00:06:50,880 and lack of water that would kill other species. 117 00:06:53,320 --> 00:06:55,903 Owners take great pride in their precious animals. 118 00:06:56,858 --> 00:06:59,257 (owner coughs) 119 00:06:59,257 --> 00:07:01,840 (solemn music) 120 00:07:03,690 --> 00:07:06,470 With painstaking attention to detail, 121 00:07:06,470 --> 00:07:09,262 they're transformed into living works of art. 122 00:07:09,262 --> 00:07:11,845 (solemn music) 123 00:07:18,910 --> 00:07:21,573 The Marwari horse is also highly valued. 124 00:07:22,660 --> 00:07:25,650 Its unique smooth step, the revaal, 125 00:07:25,650 --> 00:07:28,533 enables the rider to travel across sand, in comfort. 126 00:07:29,480 --> 00:07:32,063 (solemn music) 127 00:07:33,603 --> 00:07:36,533 Marwari means from the land of death. 128 00:07:38,040 --> 00:07:40,580 Originally bred for desert warriors, 129 00:07:40,580 --> 00:07:43,390 it's a warhorse of incredible stamina, 130 00:07:43,390 --> 00:07:45,503 that can thrive with little food or water. 131 00:07:48,110 --> 00:07:51,130 Desert people have always shared their lives with animals 132 00:07:51,130 --> 00:07:52,883 and relied on them for survival. 133 00:07:56,180 --> 00:07:58,170 This has created an ingrained tradition 134 00:07:58,170 --> 00:07:59,623 of respect for animals, 135 00:08:01,160 --> 00:08:03,073 fundamental to life all over the Thar. 136 00:08:07,997 --> 00:08:12,090 200 kilometers from Nagaur, on the desert's eastern edge, 137 00:08:12,090 --> 00:08:15,023 is the state's capital, Jaipur. 138 00:08:16,810 --> 00:08:18,390 (energetic music) 139 00:08:18,390 --> 00:08:22,200 It's another world, a man-made oasis, 140 00:08:22,200 --> 00:08:25,723 plumbed into deep water supplies and fed by desert farms. 141 00:08:28,360 --> 00:08:30,473 Jaipur is a desert in disguise. 142 00:08:31,850 --> 00:08:34,290 Approaching three million people, 143 00:08:34,290 --> 00:08:36,940 it's one of the fastest-growing places on the planet. 144 00:08:38,489 --> 00:08:39,322 (engines revving) 145 00:08:39,322 --> 00:08:41,572 But people don't have the city to themselves. 146 00:08:42,580 --> 00:08:44,793 Animals threaten to take over the streets. 147 00:08:47,680 --> 00:08:51,024 The most successful invaders are Jaipur's monkeys. 148 00:08:51,024 --> 00:08:53,607 (lively music) 149 00:08:55,940 --> 00:08:57,720 Alongside humans, 150 00:08:57,720 --> 00:09:00,923 rhesus macaques are the world's most adaptable primates. 151 00:09:02,950 --> 00:09:05,303 The urban jungle is full of opportunities. 152 00:09:06,410 --> 00:09:09,313 There's great food and plenty to drink. 153 00:09:14,380 --> 00:09:17,093 Traditionally, macaques live in forests. 154 00:09:17,970 --> 00:09:21,440 But as Jaipur has expanded into their natural home, 155 00:09:21,440 --> 00:09:23,213 they've adapted to city life. 156 00:09:24,470 --> 00:09:27,273 40 street gangs now terrorize the neighborhood. 157 00:09:27,273 --> 00:09:28,785 (dramatic music) 158 00:09:28,785 --> 00:09:31,213 (pig grunts) 159 00:09:31,213 --> 00:09:32,492 (cow moos) 160 00:09:32,492 --> 00:09:34,473 (goat bleats) 161 00:09:34,473 --> 00:09:35,440 (cow moos) 162 00:09:35,440 --> 00:09:37,036 (dramatic music) 163 00:09:37,036 --> 00:09:41,200 (monkey squeaks) (pig grunts) 164 00:09:41,200 --> 00:09:43,980 But above Jaipur's hectic streets, 165 00:09:43,980 --> 00:09:46,843 one macaque family occupies a privileged position. 166 00:09:48,180 --> 00:09:50,923 This is the 60-strong temple troop. 167 00:09:51,770 --> 00:09:53,760 Though protected by a male, 168 00:09:53,760 --> 00:09:56,023 it's the alpha female who's in charge. 169 00:09:57,810 --> 00:10:00,270 Female macaques stay together for life 170 00:10:00,270 --> 00:10:01,783 and are the core of the group. 171 00:10:04,170 --> 00:10:05,890 This family thrives because they live 172 00:10:05,890 --> 00:10:07,913 in a temple dedicated to monkeys. 173 00:10:12,550 --> 00:10:14,690 Every year, thousands of pilgrims come here 174 00:10:14,690 --> 00:10:17,093 to worship Hanuman, the monkey god. 175 00:10:18,870 --> 00:10:22,940 According to Hindu religion, Hanuman defeated evil, 176 00:10:22,940 --> 00:10:26,429 and as a result, all monkeys are considered sacred. 177 00:10:26,429 --> 00:10:31,429 (bell rings) (solemn music) 178 00:10:31,970 --> 00:10:34,543 The temple troop is treated like royalty. 179 00:10:37,800 --> 00:10:40,130 Pilgrims show their respect for Hanuman 180 00:10:40,130 --> 00:10:41,583 by feeding the macaques. 181 00:10:43,200 --> 00:10:45,970 This is monkey heaven, where the family can afford 182 00:10:45,970 --> 00:10:47,813 to relax and have fun. 183 00:10:48,965 --> 00:10:52,048 (lighthearted music) 184 00:10:56,407 --> 00:11:01,407 (monkey squeaking) (upbeat music) 185 00:11:11,620 --> 00:11:13,800 Life will get harder in time. 186 00:11:13,800 --> 00:11:16,433 When summer sets in, the city will heat up. 187 00:11:17,460 --> 00:11:19,900 Supplies of food and water will dwindle. 188 00:11:19,900 --> 00:11:22,200 And the troop will have to fight for survival. 189 00:11:23,907 --> 00:11:25,970 (monkeys squeaking) 190 00:11:25,970 --> 00:11:27,803 But spring is a time of plenty. 191 00:11:28,900 --> 00:11:31,083 Pilgrims have enough food to be generous. 192 00:11:31,936 --> 00:11:35,328 (monkeys squeaking) 193 00:11:35,328 --> 00:11:38,480 (man speaks in foreign language) 194 00:11:38,480 --> 00:11:40,630 It's not just monkeys that are sacred here. 195 00:11:42,840 --> 00:11:45,313 90% of India's population is Hindu, 196 00:11:46,290 --> 00:11:48,683 a religion that worships many animal gods. 197 00:11:50,010 --> 00:11:54,260 Hindus believe that humans and animals are one family, 198 00:11:54,260 --> 00:11:55,930 so all creatures should be treated 199 00:11:55,930 --> 00:11:58,360 with respect and kindness. 200 00:11:58,360 --> 00:12:01,700 And in the Thar, that includes a creature much 201 00:12:01,700 --> 00:12:03,123 of the world loves to hate. 202 00:12:06,050 --> 00:12:07,610 300 kilometers northwest 203 00:12:07,610 --> 00:12:10,523 of Jaipur is the isolated town of Deshnoke. 204 00:12:12,680 --> 00:12:15,333 The city is famous for its temple of nightmares. 205 00:12:16,353 --> 00:12:18,853 (eerie music) 206 00:12:19,890 --> 00:12:21,950 It's crawling with rats. 207 00:12:21,950 --> 00:12:25,830 (rats squeaking) (eerie music) 208 00:12:25,830 --> 00:12:30,310 Even today, rats spread bubonic plague, salmonella, 209 00:12:30,310 --> 00:12:32,773 and tuberculosis via infected fleas. 210 00:12:33,990 --> 00:12:35,740 Seen as vermin worldwide, 211 00:12:35,740 --> 00:12:37,543 rats are often killed on sight. 212 00:12:39,121 --> 00:12:40,530 (bell rings) 213 00:12:40,530 --> 00:12:42,967 But here, they are revered. 214 00:12:42,967 --> 00:12:45,967 (people chattering) 215 00:12:47,100 --> 00:12:48,930 Thousands of Hindus flock to the temple 216 00:12:48,930 --> 00:12:52,258 to honor the miracle goddess, Karni Mata. 217 00:12:52,258 --> 00:12:54,675 (bell rings) 218 00:12:56,260 --> 00:12:59,223 The temple's rats are believed to be Karni Mata's children, 219 00:13:00,150 --> 00:13:02,660 reincarnated in a rat's body. 220 00:13:02,660 --> 00:13:04,063 They are known as kabas. 221 00:13:05,210 --> 00:13:07,880 The sight of a kaba brings good luck. 222 00:13:07,880 --> 00:13:11,079 Feeding the rats is an even greater honor. 223 00:13:11,079 --> 00:13:14,079 (people chattering) 224 00:13:18,050 --> 00:13:21,093 Worshipers offer the rats a sweetmeat known as prasad. 225 00:13:22,346 --> 00:13:25,090 (people chattering) 226 00:13:25,090 --> 00:13:28,150 Flour, sugar, and clarified butter are mixed 227 00:13:28,150 --> 00:13:30,593 into huge quantities, in the temple kitchens. 228 00:13:31,842 --> 00:13:34,393 (steam hisses) 229 00:13:34,393 --> 00:13:39,393 (people speak in foreign language) 230 00:13:39,450 --> 00:13:40,640 Visiting the rat temple 231 00:13:40,640 --> 00:13:43,810 is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for some. 232 00:13:43,810 --> 00:13:45,210 Others come here, every day. 233 00:13:47,353 --> 00:13:48,830 (man speaks in foreign language) 234 00:13:48,830 --> 00:13:50,530 Devdam is one of the temple elite. 235 00:13:51,380 --> 00:13:55,033 He can trace his family back to the goddess, Karni Mata. 236 00:13:57,290 --> 00:13:59,270 He believes that when he dies, 237 00:13:59,270 --> 00:14:02,183 he will return here, reborn as a rat. 238 00:14:03,590 --> 00:14:06,640 Three times a day, he comes to pray to his holy aunt 239 00:14:06,640 --> 00:14:09,027 and share food with his relatives. 240 00:14:09,027 --> 00:14:13,360 (Devdam speaks in foreign language) 241 00:14:14,800 --> 00:14:18,093 20,000 rats live a life of luxury in the temple. 242 00:14:21,100 --> 00:14:24,220 There's never been an outbreak of disease here, 243 00:14:24,220 --> 00:14:26,700 even though people share food with rats, 244 00:14:26,700 --> 00:14:28,650 which is considered the ultimate honor. 245 00:14:34,070 --> 00:14:37,633 Hindus believe people and animals share an eternal journey. 246 00:14:38,570 --> 00:14:40,890 Born as a human in this life, 247 00:14:40,890 --> 00:14:42,893 you may be a rat in the next. 248 00:14:46,050 --> 00:14:48,293 Such reverence isn't reserved for rats. 249 00:14:49,150 --> 00:14:51,210 In another part of the desert, 250 00:14:51,210 --> 00:14:53,307 scavengers get special treatment, too. 251 00:14:53,307 --> 00:14:54,521 (bell rings) 252 00:14:54,521 --> 00:14:57,540 (air whooshing) (dramatic music) 253 00:14:57,540 --> 00:15:01,610 160 kilometers south of Deshnoke's rat temple is a city 254 00:15:01,610 --> 00:15:04,794 known as the gateway to the desert, Jodhpur. 255 00:15:04,794 --> 00:15:05,793 (air whooshes) 256 00:15:05,793 --> 00:15:07,320 (camera clicks) 257 00:15:07,320 --> 00:15:08,380 It's dominated by one 258 00:15:08,380 --> 00:15:13,150 of India's most impressive buildings, Mehrangarh Fort, 259 00:15:13,150 --> 00:15:15,817 also known as Mountain of Birds. 260 00:15:15,817 --> 00:15:18,570 (flag whipping) 261 00:15:18,570 --> 00:15:22,293 Its battlements tower 120 meters above the city. 262 00:15:24,180 --> 00:15:26,180 And they've been occupied for centuries. 263 00:15:27,067 --> 00:15:29,128 (birds chirping) 264 00:15:29,128 --> 00:15:33,211 (man speaks in foreign language) 265 00:15:34,630 --> 00:15:37,690 The fort is a stronghold for birds of prey, 266 00:15:37,690 --> 00:15:40,071 thanks to the people of Jodhpur. 267 00:15:40,071 --> 00:15:43,030 (inspirational music) 268 00:15:43,030 --> 00:15:47,193 In the fabled blue city, raptors have long been protected. 269 00:15:47,193 --> 00:15:50,190 (birds screeching) (inspirational music) 270 00:15:50,190 --> 00:15:52,680 Caring for the black kite population 271 00:15:52,680 --> 00:15:55,645 is a task Latif Qureshi takes to heart. 272 00:15:55,645 --> 00:15:58,812 (inspirational music) 273 00:15:59,690 --> 00:16:02,010 Latif feeds the kites every day, 274 00:16:02,010 --> 00:16:04,023 as his family has done for generations. 275 00:16:04,900 --> 00:16:06,136 It's a great honor. 276 00:16:06,136 --> 00:16:11,136 (black kites screeching) (inspirational music) 277 00:16:23,390 --> 00:16:25,020 Nurtured by the city, 278 00:16:25,020 --> 00:16:27,727 the kites thrive in their desert fortress. 279 00:16:27,727 --> 00:16:30,894 (inspirational music) 280 00:16:38,360 --> 00:16:40,950 They share their home with long-billed vultures 281 00:16:40,950 --> 00:16:42,513 that nest on its battlements. 282 00:16:45,730 --> 00:16:47,880 But India's vultures haven't been so lucky. 283 00:16:48,950 --> 00:16:51,523 Their numbers fell by 90%, in recent years, 284 00:16:52,380 --> 00:16:55,313 accidentally poisoned by a drug that is now banned. 285 00:16:57,820 --> 00:16:59,403 Fewer vultures nest here now. 286 00:17:00,310 --> 00:17:02,943 But Jodhpur's fort remains a vital breeding ground. 287 00:17:03,990 --> 00:17:05,583 Numbers are slowly recovering. 288 00:17:09,070 --> 00:17:11,150 Vultures rise on thermals 289 00:17:11,150 --> 00:17:14,532 and soar effortlessly above the blue city. 290 00:17:14,532 --> 00:17:17,115 (man chanting) 291 00:17:24,430 --> 00:17:27,173 The streets below are crowded with working animals. 292 00:17:30,920 --> 00:17:33,040 Cows are sacred to Hindus 293 00:17:33,040 --> 00:17:35,400 and cannot be eaten when they die. 294 00:17:35,400 --> 00:17:37,913 Instead, they must be respectfully disposed of. 295 00:17:39,850 --> 00:17:43,730 Every day, carcasses are wheeled to the edge of the city 296 00:17:43,730 --> 00:17:45,833 where they're left to the scavengers. 297 00:17:50,470 --> 00:17:53,803 Birds of prey are invaluable to society. 298 00:17:54,638 --> 00:17:57,721 (vultures squawking) 299 00:18:04,667 --> 00:18:06,063 The vultures are fed. 300 00:18:07,010 --> 00:18:10,080 In return, they clean up the city, 301 00:18:10,080 --> 00:18:12,403 helping ensure disease doesn't get a grip. 302 00:18:21,410 --> 00:18:25,010 Mehrangarh Fort isn't only a haven for birds. 303 00:18:25,010 --> 00:18:28,103 It's a sanctuary for another of India's most sacred animals. 304 00:18:30,987 --> 00:18:33,140 (monkey screeching) 305 00:18:33,140 --> 00:18:36,523 Revered above all monkeys is the Hanuman langur, 306 00:18:37,960 --> 00:18:41,113 believed to be the living incarnation of the monkey god. 307 00:18:43,850 --> 00:18:46,420 This adaptable primate can survive everywhere, 308 00:18:46,420 --> 00:18:49,063 from steaming jungles to frozen forests. 309 00:18:50,230 --> 00:18:53,153 No other monkey lives in the center of a parched desert. 310 00:18:55,770 --> 00:18:58,660 Langurs know which desert plants are edible 311 00:18:58,660 --> 00:19:01,410 and get most of the moisture they need from solid food. 312 00:19:02,480 --> 00:19:05,053 But they also seize man-made opportunities. 313 00:19:07,690 --> 00:19:10,520 Every morning, the family leave their trees 314 00:19:10,520 --> 00:19:11,770 to take a trip into town. 315 00:19:16,150 --> 00:19:20,500 Incredible acrobats, they gracefully scale the rooftops 316 00:19:20,500 --> 00:19:22,100 on their way to Mehrangarh Fort. 317 00:19:31,300 --> 00:19:33,750 It's usually a good place to get handouts 318 00:19:33,750 --> 00:19:37,550 from generous pilgrims, but today, 319 00:19:37,550 --> 00:19:40,373 there's a very different welcoming committee. 320 00:19:40,373 --> 00:19:42,873 (tense music) 321 00:19:49,750 --> 00:19:53,043 Rogue bachelor males patrol the ramparts. 322 00:19:55,030 --> 00:19:56,830 Without a troop of their own, 323 00:19:56,830 --> 00:19:59,253 they team up to try and steal one. 324 00:20:00,897 --> 00:20:01,913 And they use force. 325 00:20:04,388 --> 00:20:07,760 (monkey growls) 326 00:20:07,760 --> 00:20:10,117 Troop takeovers can be brutal. 327 00:20:10,117 --> 00:20:13,710 (monkeys screeching) 328 00:20:13,710 --> 00:20:16,333 New males never adopt existing youngsters. 329 00:20:17,230 --> 00:20:20,006 If they win, they will kill the infants. 330 00:20:20,006 --> 00:20:21,502 (ominous music) 331 00:20:21,502 --> 00:20:23,950 (monkeys screeching) 332 00:20:23,950 --> 00:20:26,083 Mothers are desperate to save their babies. 333 00:20:26,083 --> 00:20:31,083 (tense music) (monkeys screeching) 334 00:20:33,220 --> 00:20:34,973 The bachelors dwarf the females. 335 00:20:36,120 --> 00:20:38,023 But the sisterhood stands strong. 336 00:20:38,023 --> 00:20:41,023 (monkey screeching) 337 00:20:44,950 --> 00:20:47,333 The alpha female shows incredible bravery. 338 00:20:48,400 --> 00:20:51,093 She risks life and limb to repel the attackers. 339 00:20:52,217 --> 00:20:54,717 (tense music) 340 00:20:59,270 --> 00:21:00,473 It's not their time yet. 341 00:21:03,120 --> 00:21:06,143 The bachelors flee, but they'll be back. 342 00:21:07,360 --> 00:21:10,183 Male takeovers are part and parcel of langur life. 343 00:21:11,350 --> 00:21:12,980 The alpha male is only strong enough 344 00:21:12,980 --> 00:21:14,883 to retain a troop for a few years. 345 00:21:15,940 --> 00:21:18,480 Scarred from previous battles, 346 00:21:18,480 --> 00:21:21,259 his days at the top are numbered. 347 00:21:21,259 --> 00:21:24,100 (monkeys squeaking) 348 00:21:24,100 --> 00:21:27,450 With frequent droughts, food shortages, and fierce fights 349 00:21:27,450 --> 00:21:31,343 between rivals troops desert life is a struggle for langurs. 350 00:21:34,270 --> 00:21:37,734 But thanks to their holy status, help is at hand. 351 00:21:37,734 --> 00:21:41,984 (people speak in foreign language) 352 00:21:43,690 --> 00:21:46,300 Mr. Borana runs a charity dedicated 353 00:21:46,300 --> 00:21:48,603 to caring for Jodhpur's sacred monkeys. 354 00:21:51,396 --> 00:21:54,063 (horns honking) 355 00:21:55,580 --> 00:21:57,173 After their bruising encounter, 356 00:21:58,200 --> 00:22:00,450 the langurs are ready to see a friendly face, 357 00:22:02,630 --> 00:22:04,780 particularly when he's handing out a feast. 358 00:22:06,715 --> 00:22:08,211 (Mr. Borana laughs) 359 00:22:08,211 --> 00:22:12,878 (Mr. Borana speaks in foreign language) 360 00:22:20,250 --> 00:22:22,640 Many of the langurs have known Mr. Borana 361 00:22:22,640 --> 00:22:25,403 since they were born, and they're not shy. 362 00:22:32,414 --> 00:22:35,830 Though bananas aren't the natural food of desert monkeys, 363 00:22:35,830 --> 00:22:37,280 they're the troop's favorite. 364 00:22:47,210 --> 00:22:49,030 The alpha female is wise enough to know 365 00:22:49,030 --> 00:22:51,763 that Mr. Borana is a lifeline for her family. 366 00:22:53,200 --> 00:22:55,350 There's no risk of starvation here, 367 00:22:55,350 --> 00:22:57,945 despite the constant threat of drought. 368 00:22:57,945 --> 00:23:02,030 (Mr. Borana speaks in foreign language) 369 00:23:02,030 --> 00:23:05,040 In this desert community, people take the welfare 370 00:23:05,040 --> 00:23:07,083 of animals into their own hands. 371 00:23:10,750 --> 00:23:12,030 Mr. Borana's devotion 372 00:23:12,030 --> 00:23:14,900 to these monkeys has created a unique bond 373 00:23:14,900 --> 00:23:17,393 between man and his primate cousins. 374 00:23:21,950 --> 00:23:23,610 Langurs thrive because 375 00:23:23,610 --> 00:23:25,653 of their close relationship with humans. 376 00:23:26,730 --> 00:23:30,800 But in the summer, desert life gets tougher for everyone, 377 00:23:30,800 --> 00:23:32,143 even holy monkeys. 378 00:23:33,790 --> 00:23:37,412 Fed year-round, Jodhpur's langurs are the lucky ones. 379 00:23:37,412 --> 00:23:39,820 (air whooshing) (dramatic music) 380 00:23:39,820 --> 00:23:44,137 Their big-city relatives must steal to survive. 381 00:23:44,137 --> 00:23:46,820 (engines revving) 382 00:23:46,820 --> 00:23:50,573 Jaipur is hot and hectic, with millions to feed. 383 00:23:52,410 --> 00:23:54,693 Summer drought cuts supplies to the city. 384 00:23:56,630 --> 00:23:58,623 With less food to feed their families, 385 00:23:59,470 --> 00:24:02,093 the pilgrims' handouts at the monkey temple dry up. 386 00:24:03,050 --> 00:24:05,203 But there's still plenty to eat, downtown. 387 00:24:06,950 --> 00:24:09,323 The temple troop is on a mission to find food. 388 00:24:10,410 --> 00:24:12,150 But in the blistering heat, 389 00:24:12,150 --> 00:24:15,020 the youngsters take time out to cool down. 390 00:24:15,020 --> 00:24:17,603 (upbeat music) 391 00:24:29,562 --> 00:24:32,580 The rest of the family is anxious to move on. 392 00:24:32,580 --> 00:24:35,541 They've got a date with Jaipur's central market. 393 00:24:35,541 --> 00:24:38,330 (suspenseful music) 394 00:24:38,330 --> 00:24:40,280 For the hungry troop, 395 00:24:40,280 --> 00:24:42,683 this is a banquet too tempting to resist. 396 00:24:44,710 --> 00:24:46,924 The family moves into position. 397 00:24:46,924 --> 00:24:49,924 (suspenseful music) 398 00:25:02,160 --> 00:25:05,693 From their rooftop vantage point, they plan their strategy. 399 00:25:07,651 --> 00:25:10,651 (people chattering) 400 00:25:21,280 --> 00:25:24,714 It's a slick, carefully coordinated operation. 401 00:25:24,714 --> 00:25:27,214 (tense music) 402 00:25:32,820 --> 00:25:35,053 The thieves move with stealth and speed. 403 00:25:37,480 --> 00:25:40,480 (monkeys squeaking) 404 00:25:42,700 --> 00:25:44,611 It's daylight robbery. 405 00:25:44,611 --> 00:25:47,194 (solemn music) 406 00:25:52,364 --> 00:25:55,460 (dramatic music) (people yelling) 407 00:25:55,460 --> 00:25:57,950 Hindus may worship monkeys, 408 00:25:57,950 --> 00:25:59,840 but their patience is pushed to the limit, 409 00:25:59,840 --> 00:26:01,383 during the long, hot summer. 410 00:26:04,370 --> 00:26:07,163 The city's brazen macaques become a serious nuisance. 411 00:26:11,227 --> 00:26:14,144 (monkey squeaking) 412 00:26:22,270 --> 00:26:24,763 But the people of Jaipur have a secret weapon, 413 00:26:25,771 --> 00:26:29,476 (dramatic music) (engine rattling) 414 00:26:29,476 --> 00:26:32,545 Dhanna Lal, the monkey catcher. 415 00:26:32,545 --> 00:26:35,128 (solemn music) 416 00:26:38,260 --> 00:26:41,962 Dhanna is employed to rid the city of problem monkeys. 417 00:26:41,962 --> 00:26:44,545 (solemn music) 418 00:26:48,740 --> 00:26:51,480 He knows where the troublemakers hide, 419 00:26:51,480 --> 00:26:53,053 and he's one step ahead. 420 00:26:57,830 --> 00:27:00,010 Macaques might be clever, 421 00:27:00,010 --> 00:27:02,453 but it's hard to outsmart the monkey catcher. 422 00:27:06,530 --> 00:27:10,210 Dhanna Lal takes the problem macaques on the return journey, 423 00:27:10,210 --> 00:27:12,733 150 kilometers outside Jaipur, 424 00:27:14,230 --> 00:27:17,503 to their ancestral home, the Aravalli hills. 425 00:27:19,050 --> 00:27:22,140 India's oldest mountain range forms a natural barrier 426 00:27:22,140 --> 00:27:25,080 to the Thar Desert, running 800 kilometers 427 00:27:25,080 --> 00:27:26,423 on its southeastern edge. 428 00:27:28,440 --> 00:27:31,350 The ancient mountains are a source of many rivers 429 00:27:31,350 --> 00:27:33,733 and home to a rich diversity of life. 430 00:27:34,860 --> 00:27:37,290 Rare creatures, like the sloth bear, 431 00:27:37,290 --> 00:27:38,903 find refuge in these hills. 432 00:27:41,260 --> 00:27:43,400 But to city-bred monkeys, 433 00:27:43,400 --> 00:27:46,810 it's a shock to the system. (engine revving) 434 00:27:46,810 --> 00:27:50,070 Having never experienced life in the wild before, 435 00:27:50,070 --> 00:27:51,820 they have a lot of adjusting to do. 436 00:27:52,830 --> 00:27:54,930 They will have to relearn the survival skills 437 00:27:54,930 --> 00:27:56,403 of their forest ancestors. 438 00:27:59,310 --> 00:28:02,853 Until then, they'll have to make due with a roadside snack. 439 00:28:08,000 --> 00:28:10,223 The Aravalli hills are blessed with water, 440 00:28:11,230 --> 00:28:14,483 but in the baking heat, the forest is tinder-dry. 441 00:28:16,940 --> 00:28:19,973 In the summer, animals crowd the waterholes. 442 00:28:22,780 --> 00:28:25,150 The sambar deer cakes himself in mud, 443 00:28:25,150 --> 00:28:26,600 as a way of keeping cool. 444 00:28:28,672 --> 00:28:31,950 (boar grunting) 445 00:28:31,950 --> 00:28:34,810 Female wild boar feel the heat, too, 446 00:28:34,810 --> 00:28:37,163 especially with the demands of thirsty piglets. 447 00:28:38,349 --> 00:28:41,266 (piglets grunting) 448 00:28:42,320 --> 00:28:45,173 For many animals, it's the breeding season. 449 00:28:46,990 --> 00:28:49,183 Male sambar deer prepare for the rut. 450 00:28:56,760 --> 00:28:59,260 Male peacocks are competing, too, 451 00:28:59,260 --> 00:29:00,723 with beautiful displays. 452 00:29:05,040 --> 00:29:07,970 Females prefer males with big tails. 453 00:29:07,970 --> 00:29:10,856 But fabulous feathers can attract deadly admirers. 454 00:29:10,856 --> 00:29:13,860 (ominous music) 455 00:29:13,860 --> 00:29:17,073 This region is home to India's most iconic predator. 456 00:29:18,006 --> 00:29:20,673 (ominous music) 457 00:29:21,990 --> 00:29:24,373 All forest animals share a common enemy, 458 00:29:25,280 --> 00:29:27,573 and they work together to try and survive. 459 00:29:30,290 --> 00:29:32,838 Many eyes are alert to danger. 460 00:29:32,838 --> 00:29:35,338 (tense music) 461 00:29:50,560 --> 00:29:53,000 The neighbors operate an early warning system. 462 00:29:53,000 --> 00:29:56,083 (peacocks screeches) 463 00:30:00,740 --> 00:30:03,393 One of the langur troop didn't make it to safety. 464 00:30:04,640 --> 00:30:07,913 Down on the ground, a monkey can provide an easy meal. 465 00:30:10,881 --> 00:30:13,798 (monkeys grunting) 466 00:30:14,860 --> 00:30:17,410 The Aravalli forest is home to around 30 467 00:30:17,410 --> 00:30:21,186 of India's remaining 1,500 Bengal tigers. 468 00:30:21,186 --> 00:30:23,936 (birds chirping) 469 00:30:28,510 --> 00:30:30,700 The Thar Desert provides a sanctuary 470 00:30:30,700 --> 00:30:33,550 to many of India's native species. 471 00:30:33,550 --> 00:30:36,571 And it also attracts visitors from much further afield. 472 00:30:36,571 --> 00:30:39,520 (camera clicks) 473 00:30:39,520 --> 00:30:41,930 One migrates thousands of kilometers 474 00:30:41,930 --> 00:30:44,203 from China and Russia to reach the desert. 475 00:30:45,250 --> 00:30:46,770 On its epic journey, 476 00:30:46,770 --> 00:30:49,133 it must scale the world's highest mountains. 477 00:30:51,120 --> 00:30:55,980 The Himalayas stretch for 2,400 kilometers across Asia. 478 00:30:55,980 --> 00:30:58,830 The tallest peak rises almost nine kilometers 479 00:30:58,830 --> 00:31:01,533 above sea level, Everest. 480 00:31:02,660 --> 00:31:04,620 Everest is known in Tibet 481 00:31:04,620 --> 00:31:07,913 as the mountain so high no bird can fly over it. 482 00:31:08,980 --> 00:31:11,949 But one remarkable species has proved otherwise, 483 00:31:11,949 --> 00:31:13,449 (inspirational music) 484 00:31:13,449 --> 00:31:15,080 the demoiselle crane. 485 00:31:15,080 --> 00:31:18,247 (inspirational music) 486 00:31:24,360 --> 00:31:27,000 To escape Asia's bitter winters, 487 00:31:27,000 --> 00:31:30,814 the cranes take on the planet's ultimate mountain challenge. 488 00:31:30,814 --> 00:31:33,981 (inspirational music) 489 00:31:35,530 --> 00:31:38,060 These delicate-looking birds find the strength 490 00:31:38,060 --> 00:31:39,850 to battle freezing winds 491 00:31:39,850 --> 00:31:43,463 and air so thin they're literally starved of oxygen. 492 00:31:45,217 --> 00:31:48,240 (inspirational music) 493 00:31:48,240 --> 00:31:51,480 Flying alongside their parents are juveniles, 494 00:31:51,480 --> 00:31:53,013 only recently fledged. 495 00:31:54,480 --> 00:31:56,110 But their parents can't protect them 496 00:31:56,110 --> 00:31:58,707 from masterful mountain predators. 497 00:31:58,707 --> 00:32:01,374 (ominous music) 498 00:32:02,843 --> 00:32:05,676 (cranes warbling) 499 00:32:06,650 --> 00:32:09,808 Golden eagles work in pairs to hunt down the weak. 500 00:32:09,808 --> 00:32:12,475 (ominous music) 501 00:32:13,370 --> 00:32:17,757 The flock is exhausted, especially the youngsters. 502 00:32:17,757 --> 00:32:20,340 (solemn music) 503 00:32:22,910 --> 00:32:26,410 Identifying a target, the eagles close in, 504 00:32:26,410 --> 00:32:28,243 at over 300 kilometers an hour. 505 00:32:29,280 --> 00:32:30,710 There's little chance of escape. 506 00:32:30,710 --> 00:32:33,460 (dramatic music) 507 00:32:39,289 --> 00:32:41,956 (crane squawks) 508 00:32:44,187 --> 00:32:46,770 (somber music) 509 00:32:51,830 --> 00:32:54,663 This is the most perilous leg of the crane's migration. 510 00:32:56,190 --> 00:32:58,373 It's a miracle they survived their journey. 511 00:33:00,719 --> 00:33:02,020 (camera clicks) 512 00:33:02,020 --> 00:33:04,870 The flocks fly 3,000 kilometers nonstop, 513 00:33:04,870 --> 00:33:08,060 in just seven days, to get here, 514 00:33:08,060 --> 00:33:10,508 the tiny desert town of Kichan. 515 00:33:10,508 --> 00:33:13,425 (cranes squawking) 516 00:33:18,010 --> 00:33:21,300 The townspeople are honored to welcome the survivors 517 00:33:21,300 --> 00:33:23,653 and feed them throughout their six-month stay. 518 00:33:26,530 --> 00:33:30,270 Their generosity is a mark of their respect for the cranes, 519 00:33:30,270 --> 00:33:31,693 and it's justly rewarded. 520 00:33:34,010 --> 00:33:36,053 9,000 cranes flock to Kichan, 521 00:33:37,210 --> 00:33:39,672 one of the largest congregations in the world. 522 00:33:39,672 --> 00:33:42,589 (cranes squawking) 523 00:33:46,760 --> 00:33:49,003 It's a safe, warm place to winter, 524 00:33:49,930 --> 00:33:52,880 and there's enough food to recover from their arduous trip. 525 00:34:00,780 --> 00:34:04,593 In some countries, cranes are shot and face extinction. 526 00:34:05,550 --> 00:34:07,513 But here, they're protected. 527 00:34:10,810 --> 00:34:12,840 The people of Kichan consider it a privilege 528 00:34:12,840 --> 00:34:15,398 to host these incredible migrants. 529 00:34:15,398 --> 00:34:19,130 (cranes squawking) 530 00:34:19,130 --> 00:34:21,130 But it's not just animals that are highly valued 531 00:34:21,130 --> 00:34:22,416 in this desert region. 532 00:34:22,416 --> 00:34:24,999 (solemn music) 533 00:34:26,630 --> 00:34:28,970 There's something else so precious, 534 00:34:28,970 --> 00:34:30,813 people have died protecting it. 535 00:34:34,750 --> 00:34:38,883 It's the ultimate desert survivor, the Khejri tree. 536 00:34:40,870 --> 00:34:44,720 Its nutritious leaves are known as famine food, 537 00:34:44,720 --> 00:34:46,943 lifesavers for animals and people. 538 00:34:48,580 --> 00:34:52,473 During a 40-year famine, people survived on its bark alone. 539 00:34:53,450 --> 00:34:56,123 And it's central to the lives of one unique tribe. 540 00:34:57,780 --> 00:35:02,060 The Bishnoi live according to 29 strict principles 541 00:35:02,060 --> 00:35:04,363 to ensure they don't harm any living thing, 542 00:35:05,320 --> 00:35:07,503 most importantly, trees. 543 00:35:12,990 --> 00:35:15,850 The Bishnoi depend on fires for cooking, 544 00:35:15,850 --> 00:35:17,750 but it's forbidden to cut living wood. 545 00:35:19,150 --> 00:35:21,153 They only ever collect dead branches. 546 00:35:23,190 --> 00:35:25,820 A brutal event in history united the Bishnoi 547 00:35:25,820 --> 00:35:27,933 and the Khejri tree forever, 548 00:35:28,890 --> 00:35:30,854 a tragedy that's never been forgotten. 549 00:35:30,854 --> 00:35:32,430 (elder speaks in foreign language) 550 00:35:32,430 --> 00:35:35,520 Even today, the village elders recount 551 00:35:35,520 --> 00:35:37,864 the story of the 393. 552 00:35:37,864 --> 00:35:41,670 (elder speaks in foreign language) 553 00:35:41,670 --> 00:35:43,200 300 years ago, 554 00:35:43,200 --> 00:35:45,943 the Maharaja of Jodhpur was building his vast fort. 555 00:35:47,040 --> 00:35:50,806 He needed wood and sent loggers to cut the Khejri trees. 556 00:35:50,806 --> 00:35:53,190 (elder speaks in foreign language) 557 00:35:53,190 --> 00:35:57,290 When a brave villager, Amrita Devi, protested, 558 00:35:57,290 --> 00:35:59,223 she paid with her life. 559 00:36:00,320 --> 00:36:03,180 Other villagers tried to protect the trees, too. 560 00:36:03,180 --> 00:36:04,963 But the loggers showed no mercy. 561 00:36:06,340 --> 00:36:09,721 In total, 393 people were martyred. 562 00:36:09,721 --> 00:36:13,971 (elder speaks in foreign language) 563 00:36:16,980 --> 00:36:20,563 It may sound like a myth, but this massacre really happened. 564 00:36:21,930 --> 00:36:23,580 The martyr's legacy is a tradition 565 00:36:23,580 --> 00:36:26,240 of conservation among their descendants. 566 00:36:26,240 --> 00:36:28,657 (bell rings) 567 00:36:31,270 --> 00:36:32,700 The Bishnoi tribe are considered 568 00:36:32,700 --> 00:36:35,260 the world's first ecologists. 569 00:36:35,260 --> 00:36:37,910 Wild animals flock to Bishnoi villages, 570 00:36:37,910 --> 00:36:40,360 because they're cared for like one of the family. 571 00:36:44,080 --> 00:36:45,973 Known as the guardians of the desert, 572 00:36:46,820 --> 00:36:50,750 the Bishnoi protect large areas of pristine habitat, 573 00:36:50,750 --> 00:36:53,053 vital sanctuaries for native wildlife, 574 00:36:55,488 --> 00:36:57,211 like the spiny-tailed lizard. 575 00:36:57,211 --> 00:36:58,600 (playful music) 576 00:36:58,600 --> 00:37:00,893 Often found living near Bishnoi villages, 577 00:37:02,270 --> 00:37:04,753 it's known to eat the beans of the Khejri tree. 578 00:37:05,956 --> 00:37:07,980 (playful music) 579 00:37:07,980 --> 00:37:10,393 Elsewhere, it's hunted for meat and medicine. 580 00:37:11,710 --> 00:37:14,413 Its only predator here is the tawny eagle. 581 00:37:16,439 --> 00:37:18,939 (tense music) 582 00:37:35,310 --> 00:37:38,780 Blackbuck, India's most elegant antelope, 583 00:37:38,780 --> 00:37:40,763 are rare outside Bishnoi land. 584 00:37:43,000 --> 00:37:45,523 Herds of 10,000 once roamed the desert, 585 00:37:46,530 --> 00:37:49,150 but numbers have crashed, due to poaching 586 00:37:49,150 --> 00:37:51,463 and competition with livestock for grazing. 587 00:37:56,610 --> 00:37:58,843 Its spiral antlers may look elegant, 588 00:37:59,950 --> 00:38:01,573 but they're designed for combat. 589 00:38:03,084 --> 00:38:05,917 (energetic music) 590 00:38:08,580 --> 00:38:11,823 Jousting follows well-established rules to minimize injury. 591 00:38:13,150 --> 00:38:16,080 But with weapons as sharp as samurai swords, 592 00:38:16,080 --> 00:38:17,852 fights can be deadly. 593 00:38:17,852 --> 00:38:20,685 (energetic music) 594 00:38:29,410 --> 00:38:31,700 With the males preoccupied, 595 00:38:31,700 --> 00:38:34,113 female blackbuck must be extra vigilant. 596 00:38:36,378 --> 00:38:38,961 (solemn music) 597 00:38:40,710 --> 00:38:43,830 Indian wolves patrol these grasslands. 598 00:38:43,830 --> 00:38:46,920 (ominous music) 599 00:38:46,920 --> 00:38:49,433 Blackbuck are its natural prey. 600 00:38:50,308 --> 00:38:52,975 (ominous music) 601 00:38:57,510 --> 00:39:00,630 But the antelope are one of the world's fastest animals. 602 00:39:00,630 --> 00:39:02,313 Reaching 80 kilometers an hour, 603 00:39:03,390 --> 00:39:04,533 they're no easy catch. 604 00:39:12,820 --> 00:39:15,653 A leaping herd proves too much for a lone wolf. 605 00:39:23,760 --> 00:39:26,800 The Thar is a stronghold for the Indian wolf, 606 00:39:26,800 --> 00:39:29,023 which thrives in undisturbed areas. 607 00:39:31,440 --> 00:39:34,330 The wolves live in tightly-knit family groups, 608 00:39:34,330 --> 00:39:35,920 led by a dominant pair. 609 00:39:39,370 --> 00:39:41,973 Once, they were widespread across the country. 610 00:39:43,110 --> 00:39:45,739 Now, fewer than 3,000 survive. 611 00:39:45,739 --> 00:39:49,130 (cubs squealing) 612 00:39:49,130 --> 00:39:51,290 Sheep make easy prey. 613 00:39:51,290 --> 00:39:53,070 And in some parts of India, 614 00:39:53,070 --> 00:39:55,113 wolves have even hunted human children. 615 00:39:56,260 --> 00:39:59,210 Understandably, this has made them public enemy number one. 616 00:40:00,850 --> 00:40:03,573 But Hindu tribes consider killing wolves taboo. 617 00:40:04,730 --> 00:40:07,140 Though still persecuted by some, 618 00:40:07,140 --> 00:40:10,138 the Indian wolf is now also protected by law. 619 00:40:10,138 --> 00:40:12,477 (cubs barking) 620 00:40:12,477 --> 00:40:14,620 (wolf howls) 621 00:40:14,620 --> 00:40:18,420 The Thar is a home to a surprising number of predators. 622 00:40:18,420 --> 00:40:19,543 Indian foxes, 623 00:40:21,130 --> 00:40:21,963 hyenas, 624 00:40:23,000 --> 00:40:24,460 and the king of them all, 625 00:40:24,460 --> 00:40:26,705 an animal that once rivaled the tiger. 626 00:40:26,705 --> 00:40:28,800 (camera clicks) 627 00:40:28,800 --> 00:40:31,310 At the far southern edge of the desert, 628 00:40:31,310 --> 00:40:33,570 in Gujarat Gir Forest, 629 00:40:33,570 --> 00:40:36,343 lives a predator normally associated with Africa. 630 00:40:38,870 --> 00:40:42,780 This parched forest is at its most dangerous in the summer, 631 00:40:42,780 --> 00:40:44,940 when one of the world's most formidable predators 632 00:40:44,940 --> 00:40:46,090 has youngsters to feed. 633 00:40:50,990 --> 00:40:53,745 Lifesaving water sources become death traps. 634 00:40:53,745 --> 00:40:56,662 (animals grunting) 635 00:41:03,840 --> 00:41:06,103 This is lion country. 636 00:41:10,300 --> 00:41:13,050 Females have cubs during the hottest months of the year 637 00:41:13,950 --> 00:41:17,450 when prey is forced to visit shrinking waterholes, 638 00:41:17,450 --> 00:41:19,000 and it's easier to make a kill. 639 00:41:20,822 --> 00:41:23,822 (suspenseful music) 640 00:41:41,350 --> 00:41:44,530 Indian lions can hunt successfully alone, 641 00:41:44,530 --> 00:41:45,980 using the cover of the trees 642 00:41:45,980 --> 00:41:48,199 to get within striking distance. 643 00:41:48,199 --> 00:41:51,199 (suspenseful music) 644 00:41:52,409 --> 00:41:54,317 (animals grunting) 645 00:41:54,317 --> 00:41:55,892 (dramatic music) 646 00:41:55,892 --> 00:41:58,725 (animals wailing) 647 00:42:00,900 --> 00:42:03,370 Unlike their African cousins, 648 00:42:03,370 --> 00:42:05,630 Indian lions have a thinner mane 649 00:42:05,630 --> 00:42:08,203 and a long line of skin running down their belly. 650 00:42:11,150 --> 00:42:14,220 The Gir Forest is the last stronghold of lions 651 00:42:14,220 --> 00:42:18,203 which once roamed all over Europe, Asia, and India. 652 00:42:23,420 --> 00:42:26,250 After a century of big game hunting, 653 00:42:26,250 --> 00:42:28,100 they were at the brink of extinction. 654 00:42:29,170 --> 00:42:32,283 In 1900, there were just 20 lions left. 655 00:42:33,330 --> 00:42:34,633 Now, there are around 500. 656 00:42:37,080 --> 00:42:39,300 They owe their survival to the Maldhari herdsmen 657 00:42:39,300 --> 00:42:41,790 who gave up their ancestral homelands 658 00:42:41,790 --> 00:42:43,363 to create a lion reserve. 659 00:42:46,500 --> 00:42:49,310 With nothing but thorn fences for protection, 660 00:42:49,310 --> 00:42:52,113 the Maldhari's tolerance for big cats is remarkable. 661 00:42:53,750 --> 00:42:57,253 The Maldharis are Hindus and consider the lion sacred. 662 00:42:58,250 --> 00:43:03,250 They worship the man-lion, Narasimha, a supreme god. 663 00:43:04,810 --> 00:43:08,300 Even though lions are venturing outside the reserve, 664 00:43:08,300 --> 00:43:11,363 the Maldhari continue to tolerate their dangerous neighbor. 665 00:43:14,410 --> 00:43:17,630 When the oppressive summer heat is at its peak, 666 00:43:17,630 --> 00:43:19,053 it's too hot to move. 667 00:43:20,300 --> 00:43:23,780 Temperatures soar to 50 degrees centigrade. 668 00:43:23,780 --> 00:43:26,731 Without a drop of rain, the desert is gripped by drought. 669 00:43:26,731 --> 00:43:29,920 (dramatic music) (horns honking) 670 00:43:29,920 --> 00:43:32,250 The region's capital city, Jaipur, 671 00:43:32,250 --> 00:43:34,973 feels the effects of food and water shortages. 672 00:43:36,930 --> 00:43:39,360 The temple troop is forced downtown, 673 00:43:39,360 --> 00:43:41,320 in search of something to eat. 674 00:43:41,320 --> 00:43:43,903 (somber music) 675 00:43:48,650 --> 00:43:50,970 Venerated monkeys reduced to rummaging 676 00:43:50,970 --> 00:43:53,332 through rubbish for scraps. 677 00:43:53,332 --> 00:43:55,530 (monkeys squeaking) 678 00:43:55,530 --> 00:43:57,410 They're thirsty, too, 679 00:43:57,410 --> 00:43:59,521 but the city taps are padlocked. 680 00:43:59,521 --> 00:44:02,521 (monkeys squeaking) 681 00:44:06,550 --> 00:44:10,223 Water supplies are drying out, even at the temple. 682 00:44:14,840 --> 00:44:18,463 But the resident troop still has one precious pool left. 683 00:44:20,670 --> 00:44:23,803 At this time of year, they're permanently on guard. 684 00:44:25,180 --> 00:44:26,720 Given half a chance, 685 00:44:26,720 --> 00:44:29,589 neighboring troops will steal their prime territory. 686 00:44:29,589 --> 00:44:32,339 (dramatic music) 687 00:44:36,500 --> 00:44:38,420 In macaque society, 688 00:44:38,420 --> 00:44:41,093 you have to defend your home if you want to keep it. 689 00:44:43,210 --> 00:44:46,750 The temple troop has lived here in luxury for generations. 690 00:44:46,750 --> 00:44:49,133 It's the main reason so many have survived. 691 00:44:50,245 --> 00:44:51,570 (invaders growling) 692 00:44:51,570 --> 00:44:53,303 But their rivals are closing in. 693 00:44:54,370 --> 00:44:56,760 They'll do almost anything to claim the temple 694 00:44:56,760 --> 00:44:58,673 and its priceless water supplies. 695 00:45:00,630 --> 00:45:03,427 The temple troop forms a defensive wall. 696 00:45:03,427 --> 00:45:06,427 (invaders growling) 697 00:45:09,100 --> 00:45:12,690 But desperation is a powerful driving force. 698 00:45:12,690 --> 00:45:16,081 The intruders take their chance and attack. 699 00:45:16,081 --> 00:45:21,081 (temple troop screeching) (solemn music) 700 00:45:25,780 --> 00:45:28,030 They break the temple troop's defensive line. 701 00:45:29,040 --> 00:45:30,866 Now anything's possible. 702 00:45:30,866 --> 00:45:33,616 (dramatic music) 703 00:45:35,422 --> 00:45:36,255 (monkey screeches) 704 00:45:36,255 --> 00:45:38,210 It's hard to know who's who, 705 00:45:38,210 --> 00:45:41,061 until the rival's dominant male makes his move. 706 00:45:41,061 --> 00:45:43,561 (tense music) 707 00:45:48,080 --> 00:45:50,123 He attacks the alpha female. 708 00:45:54,990 --> 00:45:56,253 It's a big mistake. 709 00:45:57,120 --> 00:45:59,830 Her family leaps to her defense. 710 00:45:59,830 --> 00:46:02,559 The big male turns tail and flees. 711 00:46:02,559 --> 00:46:05,309 (dramatic music) 712 00:46:06,570 --> 00:46:07,833 His troop follow suit. 713 00:46:09,610 --> 00:46:11,363 Their attack crumbles. 714 00:46:11,363 --> 00:46:14,113 (dramatic music) 715 00:46:16,720 --> 00:46:18,623 The macaques cling on to the temple, 716 00:46:19,890 --> 00:46:22,413 but one female has suffered a terrible loss. 717 00:46:24,827 --> 00:46:27,410 (somber music) 718 00:46:29,912 --> 00:46:32,495 (man chanting) 719 00:46:34,180 --> 00:46:37,799 Caught up in the fighting, her baby has died. 720 00:46:37,799 --> 00:46:40,382 (man chanting) 721 00:46:53,538 --> 00:46:57,330 A solemn mood settles over the whole family. 722 00:46:57,330 --> 00:46:59,036 They know something is wrong. 723 00:46:59,036 --> 00:47:01,619 (man chanting) 724 00:47:04,950 --> 00:47:08,380 It's impossible to know what the mother is thinking, 725 00:47:08,380 --> 00:47:11,090 but she carries her baby around for hours 726 00:47:11,090 --> 00:47:13,301 before finally letting go. 727 00:47:13,301 --> 00:47:15,884 (man chanting) 728 00:47:30,758 --> 00:47:34,264 It's a confusing time for the youngsters. 729 00:47:34,264 --> 00:47:36,377 (monkey cries) 730 00:47:36,377 --> 00:47:40,323 And there'll be more deaths if the rains don't arrive soon. 731 00:47:45,820 --> 00:47:48,500 If they don't get enough food and water, 732 00:47:48,500 --> 00:47:50,480 female macaques are sometimes forced 733 00:47:50,480 --> 00:47:51,943 to abandon their babies. 734 00:47:53,380 --> 00:47:56,563 For now, all they can do is watch and wait. 735 00:48:00,570 --> 00:48:04,833 After 10 months of drought, the baking desert is rock-hard. 736 00:48:04,833 --> 00:48:06,340 (wind whistling) 737 00:48:06,340 --> 00:48:09,700 Suddenly, a change in the air. 738 00:48:09,700 --> 00:48:11,343 The monsoon stirs. 739 00:48:13,160 --> 00:48:15,240 Low pressure sucks moisture-laden air 740 00:48:15,240 --> 00:48:18,120 from the Indian Ocean towards the Himalayas. 741 00:48:18,120 --> 00:48:20,570 As it rises and cools, (thunder crackling) 742 00:48:20,570 --> 00:48:24,000 heavy storm clouds, charged with electricity, 743 00:48:24,000 --> 00:48:26,189 finally release what's longed for. 744 00:48:26,189 --> 00:48:30,930 (thunder roars) (rain pattering) 745 00:48:30,930 --> 00:48:33,053 The monsoon transforms the city. 746 00:48:34,230 --> 00:48:37,223 A year's rain falls in a matter of hours. 747 00:48:40,467 --> 00:48:42,470 (thunder rumbles) 748 00:48:42,470 --> 00:48:44,570 It may be a lifesaver, 749 00:48:44,570 --> 00:48:47,913 but the deluge is a shock to some of Jaipur's residents. 750 00:48:49,910 --> 00:48:52,203 It's the same scene all over the Thar. 751 00:48:52,203 --> 00:48:54,953 (rain pattering) 752 00:49:00,150 --> 00:49:01,764 But the mood is changing. 753 00:49:01,764 --> 00:49:04,230 (energetic music) 754 00:49:04,230 --> 00:49:06,393 The city streets flow like rivers. 755 00:49:07,470 --> 00:49:09,610 Precious water is everywhere. 756 00:49:12,214 --> 00:49:15,047 (energetic music) 757 00:49:16,890 --> 00:49:18,673 This is a time for celebration. 758 00:49:19,940 --> 00:49:22,997 The monsoon is vital to all life here. 759 00:49:22,997 --> 00:49:25,830 (energetic music) 760 00:49:27,610 --> 00:49:30,383 Within days, the desert is transformed. 761 00:49:32,700 --> 00:49:35,120 Soils become fertile. 762 00:49:35,120 --> 00:49:36,593 Crops regrow. 763 00:49:39,410 --> 00:49:41,763 Jaipur is quick to reap the benefits. 764 00:49:42,690 --> 00:49:45,944 Fresh food and water stocks are replenished. 765 00:49:45,944 --> 00:49:48,570 (bell rings) 766 00:49:48,570 --> 00:49:50,623 Pilgrims return to the monkey temple. 767 00:49:51,480 --> 00:49:53,893 And now, they have plenty to share. 768 00:49:55,942 --> 00:49:59,000 (monkey squealing) 769 00:49:59,000 --> 00:50:02,623 The temple troop females will not abandon their babies. 770 00:50:05,350 --> 00:50:07,200 And there are new faces in the crowd. 771 00:50:09,430 --> 00:50:12,430 At last, the family has time to groom 772 00:50:12,430 --> 00:50:14,403 and renew old friendships. 773 00:50:19,240 --> 00:50:21,970 For now, the macaques can relax, 774 00:50:21,970 --> 00:50:25,613 but survival in this harsh desert will always be a struggle. 775 00:50:26,720 --> 00:50:28,823 And with India's population booming, 776 00:50:29,780 --> 00:50:32,510 and global temperatures rising, 777 00:50:32,510 --> 00:50:34,193 life can only get harder. 778 00:50:37,570 --> 00:50:40,500 The spiritual relationships that unite the Thar's human 779 00:50:40,500 --> 00:50:44,410 and animal inhabitants will increasingly shape their future, 780 00:50:44,410 --> 00:50:46,763 in the world's most crowded desert. 781 00:50:46,763 --> 00:50:48,470 (camera clicks) (dramatic music) 782 00:50:48,470 --> 00:50:50,070 The Thar desert, 783 00:50:50,070 --> 00:50:53,142 so harsh yet so full of life, 784 00:50:53,142 --> 00:50:55,500 (birds squawking) (man chanting) 785 00:50:55,500 --> 00:50:58,250 where animals and people have always needed each other, 786 00:50:59,230 --> 00:51:01,050 competition is fierce, 787 00:51:01,050 --> 00:51:03,331 and the fight for survival can be desperate. 788 00:51:03,331 --> 00:51:07,100 (monkeys screeching) (dramatic music) 789 00:51:07,100 --> 00:51:09,480 But on these sacred sands, 790 00:51:09,480 --> 00:51:12,107 a spirit of compassion saves lives. 791 00:51:12,107 --> 00:51:15,540 (dramatic music) 792 00:51:15,540 --> 00:51:17,310 The Thar is home to more creatures 793 00:51:17,310 --> 00:51:19,060 than any other desert in the world, 794 00:51:20,660 --> 00:51:23,130 because its people have a long tradition 795 00:51:23,130 --> 00:51:25,817 of respect for nature. 796 00:51:25,817 --> 00:51:28,400 (man chanting) 797 00:51:30,105 --> 00:51:32,938 {\an8}(uplifting music)