Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is a joyous occasion that people of all ages look forward to. It is marked by the lighting of lamps to dispel the darkness of Amavasya and the bursting of firecrackers to express happiness. However, in a small corner of Tamil Nadu, the villagers of Kolkudpatti and Vettangudipatti have chosen a different way to celebrate Diwali—one that reflects their deep love for the environment and its fragile wildlife.
For decades, these two villages in the Sivaganga district have refrained from bursting firecrackers during Diwali. This decision is not due to lack of tradition or festivity, but rather an act of care and respect for the migratory birds that flock to the nearby Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary each year.
The Unique Tradition
The Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary, which is located near Kolkudpatti and Vettangudipatti villages, has been a haven for migratory birds for almost half a century. Every year, between September and February, thousands of birds from distant lands like Switzerland, Russia, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka make their way to this sanctuary. The sanctuary, spanning 38 acres, provides a safe environment for over 200 species of migratory birds, including gray herons, darters, and common teals. It is a breeding ground for many of these birds, which often lay their eggs and raise their young in the peaceful environment.
With the arrival of Diwali in the midst of their migration season, the villagers realized long ago that the loud explosions from firecrackers could disturb the birds, causing them stress or even driving them away from the sanctuary. Understanding the importance of preserving this delicate ecosystem, the villagers made a collective decision to stop bursting firecrackers during Diwali.
Protecting Nature Over Tradition
This unique tradition has been embraced wholeheartedly by the people of Kolkudpatti and Vettangudipatti. Children in the villages may light a few sparklers and lamps, but the loud firecrackers that dominate Diwali celebrations elsewhere are completely absent here. This quiet celebration is a testament to the villagers’ sense of responsibility towards the environment.
Sadly, the villagers have observed a decline in the number of birds visiting the sanctuary in recent years. The rains last year affected the bird population, and the number of tourists visiting the sanctuary also decreased. Additionally, the lack of proper facilities for tourists and an increase in monkey activity, which has led to the destruction of bird nests, are some of the challenges the sanctuary faces.
Despite these challenges, the villagers remain committed to protecting the migratory birds. They understand the importance of the sanctuary, not only as a tourist attraction but as a vital part of the ecosystem. Nature lovers and bird enthusiasts have expressed concern over the decline in bird numbers, and efforts are being made to address the issues faced by the sanctuary.
A Message for the Future
The villagers’ decision to celebrate a quieter, more eco-friendly Diwali sets a powerful example for the rest of the country. Their actions remind us that festivals can be celebrated in harmony with nature, without causing harm to the environment or wildlife.
As India continues to grapple with the effects of climate change and environmental degradation, the story of Kolkudpatti and Vettangudipatti offers hope and inspiration. It encourages us to think about how our traditions and celebrations can evolve to be more mindful of the natural world. Perhaps, the next time we celebrate Diwali, we too can consider ways to make it more eco-friendly, whether that means reducing the use of firecrackers or opting for greener alternatives.
In the end, the villagers’ quiet Diwali is not just about protecting birds—it’s a celebration of nature itself, a reminder that sometimes the best way to celebrate is to let the world around us thrive.
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