Yaju, hailing from New Delhi, developed a deep passion for the wilderness in his school days through frequent Himalayan treks and time spent on his family's riverine island in North East India. He pursued academic studies in tourism, setting the stage for a career in wildlife exploration. After earning his degree, Yaju interned with a prominent wildlife tour operator, enriching his experience by visiting various national parks across India and developing a keen interest in birdwatching.

His commitment led him to a prestigious naturalist training program for Indian safari guides. Over a decade, Yaju worked as a naturalist guide in Kanha National Park, forming a deep connection with the land and its diverse wildlife, eventually choosing to make Kanha his home. Alongside guiding, he nurtured his long-standing passion for wildlife photography, focusing on lesser-known species in India's remote areas. He joined Natural Habitat Adventures as an Expedition Leader in 2024.

In addition to leading expeditions, Yaju dedicates himself to mentoring upcoming guides and inspiring young individuals across India to explore careers in wildlife tourism.