A couple of months back, my family and I drove to Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage site in northern Karnataka, India. Nestled among stunning granite boulders, Hampi is a city of ancient ruins and magnificent monuments.
Hampi is home to a large number of monkeys, which can be found in every nook and corner of the ancient temples and ruins. Predominantly Hanuman Langurs and Bonnet Macaques, these graceful primates roam freely, making their presence known to all visitors.
Seeing them roam temple balconies, jump from one tree branch to another in the temple complex, explore the ruins and display their acrobatic prowess is a delightful way to observe them in their native environment.
While visiting the famous Virupaksha Temple, my camera captured a particularly heartwarming scene: a group of monkeys sitting together , enjoying bananas. They had uncovered something special — a hidden treasure of bananas.
For these monkeys, this moment wasn’t just about food; it was the thrill of discovery and the joy of sharing an unexpected adventure together.Some of the monkeys were carefully peeling the bananas, even feeding the younger monkeys, while one cheeky monkey couldn’t resist sneaking an extra bite.
They were more than just a group enjoying a meal; they embodied a spirit of community and team work , embracing their shared adventure.
As I continued capturing these moments, I realized that, for these monkeys, the true adventure wasn’t only in finding the bananas. It was in the experience of sharing, learning, and working together to enjoy their find.
Conclusion
Observing these monkeys at Hampi reminded me of the simple yet profound value of sharing and togetherness. In their spontaneous gathering, they showcased a sense of community — celebrating the joy of discovery collectively rather than individually.
As humans, we often chase success and treasures for personal gain, overlooking the fulfillment that comes from sharing our victories and experiences with others. These monkeys, with their unguarded joy and camaraderie, taught me that the real treasure lies in togetherness, in celebrating small moments as a collective, and in embracing the spirit of collaboration over competition.