ISLAMABAD: Butterflies, with their delicate and ephemeral beauty, have enchanted poets throughout history. Their graceful flutters have not only mesmerized humans but also captivated animals such as dogs, who often chase them in wonder.
In English poetry, they are referred to as “winged jewels,” in French as “papillons de lumière” (butterflies of light), in German as “schwebende Blumen” (floating flowers), and in Urdu classical poetry as “parwaaz-e-nagham” (the flight of melodies). This universal admiration underscores their role as enduring symbols of beauty and transformation.
Against this poetic backdrop, Faisalabad-based photographer Muhammad Tahir captures the timeless charm of butterflies through his lens. His collection of 4,000 photographs, showcasing around 350 butterfly species, highlights their ecological importance and aesthetic appeal. Tahir’s work seamlessly blends artistic expression with poetic tradition, demonstrating how these creatures inspire across various forms of art and literature.
Tahir’s fascination with butterflies began with a deep love for nature. Pakistan’s diverse climates host approximately 350 butterfly species, prompting him to explore every region—from the arid landscapes of Punjab and Sindh to the lush highlands of Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
With camera in hand and patience in abundance, Tahir captures the perfect moments when butterflies alight on flowers. His portfolio serves as a visual narrative of the delicate balance between beauty and ecological preservation. “Photography has always been my way to express my love for color and life,” Tahir tells state-run news agency APP. “Butterflies, with their iridescent wings and fleeting existence, are perfect subjects. Each photograph tells a story of their world and the urgent need to protect it.”
One of his most memorable experiences involved a day spent in the misty highlands of Gilgit-Baltistan, waiting for the elusive Apollo butterfly. As the sun set, he captured the butterfly’s shimmering wings against the fading light—a moment that encapsulated his passion for this work.
Beyond showcasing beauty, Tahir aims to raise awareness about the threats facing butterflies.
As essential pollinators and indicators of environmental health, butterflies are increasingly at risk from habitat loss, climate change, and pollution. Through exhibitions at institutions such as the University of Agriculture Faisalabad and GC University Faisalabad, he educates the public on butterfly conservation.
“Breeding and farming butterflies are crucial for their survival,” Tahir emphasizes. “If we do not act now, we risk losing these incredible creatures forever.”
His exhibitions, including those at Bahauddin Zakariya University Multan, not only display his artistry but also serve as calls to action. By highlighting the intricate details and vibrant colors of butterfly wings, Tahir hopes to inspire a new generation of environmental advocates.
Tahir’s contributions to butterfly photography have garnered significant recognition, including the UN Peace Award, PCB Photography Award, and IPC International Photography Council Award. He has also been honored as Best Photographer at the Track Darbi Race and received accolades from the Punjab Wildlife Department and the Pakistan Photography Society. Additionally, he dedicates one day a week to teaching photography at GC University, underscoring his commitment to both art and environmental conservation.
Muhammad Tahir’s journey is a testament to the power of passion and art in conservation. His images not only provide visual delight but also underscore the critical interplay between beauty and preservation. Through every flutter of a butterfly’s wings, Tahir reflects his dedication to safeguarding these enchanting creatures and their habitats.
In a poetic reflection from Kaif Bopali’s celebrated Urdu poem, Bopali portrays the struggle of a butterfly clinging to a flower amidst fierce winds. This imagery symbolizes the resilience of fragile beings and their deep connection to nature. In contrast, Tahir views human actions as more perilous than the fiercest winds, advocating for a greater awareness and respect for these delicate, colorful creatures that embody nature’s beauty and resilience…. APP
