West Bengal: In an unusual and delightful social media post, 2016 batch Indian Forest Service (IFS) officer Parveen Kaswan shared a video of a tiger reserve guide performing an incredible leaf-whistling act, leaving netizens trying to identify the tune. The guide, James Bhutia, showcased the rare skill inside a tiger reserve, proving that one doesn’t need traditional instruments to create music.
A Unique Talent in the Heart of the Jungle
Parveen Kaswan, currently posted as Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of Jaldapara National Park, West Bengal, posted the clip on X (formerly Twitter), captioning it:
Meet James Bhutia, a guide in Tiger Reserve. He doesn’t need an instrument to show his talent. pic.twitter.com/BpM8Wbtltg
— Parveen Kaswan, IFS (@ParveenKaswan) November 16, 2025
“Meet James Bhutia, a guide in Tiger Reserve. He doesn’t need an instrument to show his talent.”
In the video, James Bhutia skillfully whistles using a leaf, producing a melody that some viewers compared to popular film songs. Social media users quickly took to the comments section to guess the tune, sparking a flurry of reactions.
Internet Guesses and Reactions
Several users suggested the tune resembled “Kanchi Re Kanchi Re” from the 1971 Bollywood film Hare Rama Hare Krishna, while others claimed it sounded like a song from a Kannada film.
The video drew praise and humor alike. One user commented:
“He is kept alive by tigers because tigers are entertained by his talent.”
Another added:
“Man basically a walking wildlife sensor.”
Concerns and Cautions Raised by Experts
While many lauded James Bhutia’s extraordinary leaf-whistling skills, some experts raised concerns regarding its potential impact on wildlife. One user warned:
“He possesses extraordinary talent. But he should be educated not to use it to attract particular bird species in order to impress his clients. It’s a common practice amongst guides now.”
This highlights the balance needed between showcasing human creativity and ensuring responsible wildlife practices.
About Parveen Kaswan and Jaldapara National Park
Parveen Kaswan, a 2016 batch IFS officer, has previously shared engaging posts highlighting wildlife and forest conservation efforts across India. He currently serves as the Divisional Forest Officer of Jaldapara National Park, a protected area in West Bengal famous for its Royal Bengal Tigers and diverse biodiversity.
