Sankar,
Frankly speaking I don't relish the close encounters. They may appear thrilling, however I would prefer to film and click them when they are going about their normal business.

In Bandipur, the elephants have generally become aggressive as they are often disturbed by people. The other day I saw the herd of elephants about to cross the bandipur-mudumalai road. However, they were prevented from crossing by honking trucks, busses, cars and jeeps. The elephants changed direction but were again blocked by people. The elephants then turned back and went away. These things keep on happening, so the elephants are becoming aggressive. I am also sure, outside the reserve, they would be scared away by people using firecrackers if not shotgun pellets.

This charge happened one day afternoon and the next day morning another juvenile elephant charged at us and then ran and crossed the road. Some day, an elephant might just continue with its charge and topple a vehicle. You can read more about this incident in the article When Wildlife Hits back in the diary section.

Twice I have been charged by tigers. Both the times, I would say it was not the fault of the tiger as the first time one gypsy was blocking its path and I got charged at. And in the second instance, unknowingly I had come inbetween a tigress and her cubs.

The gaur incident normally doesn't happen. They normally run away. Even when I am on foot, I have seen gaur snorting but running away. The naturalist accompanying us told me that he saw this for the first time. I wish I had recorded the sound. :-(

Sloth bear: Hopefully no one comes close to a sloth bear as they can inflict deep scratches while trying to escape. I don't think they are the most intelligent creatures around.

Will post some more images of the charge.

Cheers,
Sabyasachi