11th Udaipur Bird Festival Begins with Grandeur; Bird and Environmental Conservation Integral to Indian Lifestyle: MP Dr. Rawat
Udaipur, January 17 The 11th edition of the Udaipur Bird Festival took flight on Friday, marking a grand celebration of nature, conservation, and community involvement. Organized by the Forest Department, the three-day festival commenced at the picturesque Kalka Mata Nursery in Golden Park, Sisarma Road. The opening ceremony was graced by Udaipur MP Dr. Mannalal Rawat as the chief guest, alongside a distinguished panel of environmentalists, ornithologists, and administrative dignitaries.
An Inauguration Rooted in Conservation
In his inaugural address, Dr. Rawat underscored the intrinsic role of environmental and bird conservation in Indian culture. He shared anecdotes from rural traditions, such as the practice of responsibly disposing of clipped nails to prevent harm to birds. โEven small acts of awareness have been part of our heritage,โ he noted, emphasizing the importance of educating the younger generation through such festivals. Dr. Rawat also advocated for publishing conservation literature in Hindi, English, and Mewari to enhance outreach.
Udaipur City MLA Tarachand Jain highlighted the growing awareness of environmental protection among the public due to events like the Bird Festival. He read out a congratulatory message from Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma, commending the festivalโs efforts.
Prominent Guests and Experts Add Prestige
The event saw participation from notable figures, including WWF India CEO Ravi Singh, former Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) director Asad R. Rahmani, and BNHS ornithologists Rajat Bhargav and Anand Banerjee. Administrative leaders like Additional District Collector Dipendra Singh Rathore and retired IAS and forest officers lent their support to the event.
Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) S.R.V. Murthy, along with Sunil Chidri, Mukesh Saini, and Ajay Chittora, welcomed the guests. The program also featured the release of a commemorative souvenir and a booklet on birds. Dr. Rawat ceremonially released rehabilitated parrots to mark the festivalโs opening, symbolizing a commitment to conservation.
Children Enthralled by Birdwatching and Tattoos
One of the highlights of the festival was the birdwatching activity organized along the shores of Pichola Lake. With binoculars in hand, guided by experts, children observed a variety of birds frolicking in the shallow waters. Their joy was palpable as they identified different species. At the venue, natural, bird-themed tattoos were a popular attraction, with kids decorating their hands and faces.
Art and Quiz Competitions Spark Creativity
The inaugural day also included painting and quiz competitions, divided into senior and junior categories. Children from schools across Udaipur and nearby areas participated enthusiastically. Paintings capturing the vibrant world of birds adorned the canvases, while quiz participants showcased their knowledge of ornithology and environmental issues.
Bird Photography and Stamp Exhibition Impresses Attendees
A special attraction of the festival was the bird photography and stamp exhibition inaugurated at the Information Center. Retired Chief Conservator of Forests Rahul Bhatnagar, WWF CEO Ravi Singh, and ornithologist Asad Rahmani unveiled the exhibit. The photography section featured captivating images of birds by various professionals, while the stamp collection by Udaipur-based philatelist Pushpa Khamesra drew significant attention. Her collection includes stamps from over 354 countries, making it a centerpiece of the event.
The Broader Impact of the Festival
The Udaipur Bird Festival, beyond its vibrant activities, aims to instill a deep appreciation for biodiversity and the urgent need for conservation. By combining education with entertainment, the festival successfully engages attendees of all ages.
