Here’s What You Need to Know About the Nat Geo Drama Involving a M’sian Photographer

The controversy began when Tinesh Sritharan was reportedly “chosen” by National Geographic as one of their Explorers to document untold stories from Kenya's Maasai Mara National Reserve, where he would be covering the Great Migration, the world’s largest annual movement of wildlife from Serengeti, Tanzania to Masai Mara.

According to a report by Malay Mail, Tinesh’s pitch was approved by the National Geographic Society in April, and he was scheduled to begin fieldwork in Masai Mara on August 10.

Below is the letter Tinesh claimed to have received from National Geographic:

As you might expect, the title of “Explorer” is not handed out lightly, so it was no surprise that Tinesh was showered with congratulatory messages from fellow Malaysians after sharing the news.

Where the confusion arose

However, it was later reported that National Geographic had refuted Tinesh’s claim.

As reported by SAYS, an email sent to them by Natasha Daly, a senior manager and editor at National Geographic, stated: “Tinesh Sritharan is not an Explorer. The letter you've attached is a fraudulent letter that is not genuine.”

Needless to say, the statement from Nat Geo left Tinesh confused.

Further reports indicated that Tinesh had initially pitched an independent photography assignment for potential publication with National Geographic.

According to him, his proposal was sent to Sadie Quarrier, National Geographic’s senior director of storytelling, via her official email address in November 2024. However, Tinesh deleted the email after not receiving a reply.

It wasn’t until April 2025 that he received an email informing him that his pitch had been approved, with an acceptance letter attached.

But, according to Tinesh, the reply came from a different email address than Quarrier’s official one. He also noted that he did not receive the “briefing packet containing logistical details, safety protocols, and the official terms of engagement.”

Tinesh issues public apology

A few days ago, Tinesh posted a series of photos on his Instagram account, acknowledging the confusion and concerns that had arisen.

He explained that he had travelled to Kenya with the hope of telling meaningful stories and sharing the beauty of Maasai Mara. He also wrote that he had spent months preparing for the trip, using his own funds and energy.