There is a tree in the central jungles of India referred to as the Flame of the Forest. It’s named as such for its fiery orange petals that set the region ablaze in the early weeks of spring.

I arrive at Bandhavgarh National Park right as these glowing blooms are performing their final act, appearing instead as dimly lit torches flickering across the landscape. My disappointment at just missing the zenith of this color riot is quickly replaced by a strongly sweet aroma that floods my nose while passing through Oberoi Vindhyavilas Wildlife Resort ’s imposing entrance. “It’s the Mahua tree’s flower,” Vikas Sawhney, the general manager, says with a grin while presenting a delicate glass filled with homemade lemonade. As I’ll learn over the coming days, nature is always putting on a show

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