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Hindustan Times
17 minutes ago
- Hindustan Times
Just Like That: Amid Delhi's chaos, birds sing through smog and stone
Outside my bedroom in Delhi is a platform on which water is kept in an earthen bowl for birds. To my surprise, a great many come to quench their thirst. Of course, the most common are the crows, pigeons and mynahs. But treepies come too, as do bulbuls—both the white-cheeked and red-vented variety—and flocks of parakeets. Among the more shy visitors is the elusive barbet, with the loudest call and least visibility, thanks to its scruffy rufous colour. On the higher branches of the peepal tree in front of my house, a pair of pariah kites—the common cheel—regularly build a nest every year. Green pigeons are often perched on the tree's lower branches. Delhi is among the greenest capitals in the world, with tree cover accounting for over 20% of its geographical area. (File photo) In a city that heaves under the weight of its own contradictions, Delhi is a paradox that continues to fascinate, frustrate, and confound. It is a city of emperors and encroachments, of Lutyens' grandeur and slum tenements, of Mughal mausoleums and metastasizing malls. But amidst this chaotic sprawl, a quieter, often unnoticed miracle unfolds every morning: the birds still sing in Delhi. That Delhi, a city choking on its own ambition and pollution, remains home to over 450 species of birds is not just a matter of ecological curiosity; it is, in fact, a testament to the fact that despite the dysfunction of governance, the apathy of its inhabitants, and the relentless concretisation of its spaces, Delhi is among the greenest capitals in the world, with tree cover accounting for over 20% of its geographical area. Also read: Summer survey for Delhi Bird Atlas adds 21 species Across the Ridge—which is the northernmost extension of the Aravalli range—green spaces like the Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary, Sanjay Van, the Buddha Jayanti Park, the many sprawling parks—Lodhi Garden, Deer Park, the Aravali Biodiversity Park, and even the neglected Yamuna floodplains, offer corridors of refuge and sustenance to birds both common and rare. It is here, away from the ceaseless honking and the haze, that one finds the black drongo, the Indian grey hornbill, the shikra, and in winter and early spring, the Okhla Barrage is teeming with all kinds of ducks and migratory species. Delhi is not just a stopover for migratory birds; for many, it is a home. The city is located at the crossroads of two migratory flyways—the Central Asian and East Asian-Australasian—and this geographical coincidence is part of the reason it receives such a rich diversity of seasonal visitors. But it is the year-round residents that are even more fascinating. I am particularly happy that the ubiquitous house sparrow, once in decline due to mobile tower radiation and shrinking nesting spaces, has made a subtle comeback thanks to citizen-led conservation initiatives and increased awareness. The majestic peacock struts through colonies in South Delhi as if it were walking in the gardens of a forgotten raja. Also read: Bird sings along with human in the sweetest way possible. Watch In the tangle of wires, glass façades, and cemented balconies, birds like the tailorbird and the purple sunbird have found unlikely perches. The former stitches together its nest from leaves and spider silk, often camouflaged in a garden hedge, while the latter, metallic blue and iridescent, hovers like a jewel beside hibiscus blooms in gated societies. There is a quiet democracy in nature. Where the State often fails to deliver even the basics—clean air, potable water, liveable infrastructure—nature finds its own equilibrium. The birds of Delhi do not need permissions to gather, nor do they care for our zoning laws or property demarcations. Their only requirements are food, water, nesting space, and relative safety. And in this city, these can be found, sometimes in the most unlikely places: the neglected pond in a temple complex, a neem tree growing out of a railway platform, the thick shrubs that line the edges of a cremation ground. I have even found a lone cormorant living in an ugly concrete pond in Nehru Park. But let us not romanticise blindly. The threats are real, and they are growing. Delhi's air pollution is not merely a health hazard for humans—it affects birds too, compromising their respiratory systems and impacting migratory timings. Water bodies are disappearing or being poisoned with effluents. Illegal construction eats into wooded areas. Noise pollution disrupts communication and mating patterns in certain bird species. Also Read: Big bird day 2025 records 243 species across Delhi-NCR And yet, resilience persists, thanks in part to growing citizen engagement. Birding groups—once the preserve of a few eccentric naturalists—are now robust communities with thousands of participants. Walks in the Yamuna Biodiversity Park, Okhla Bird Sanctuary, and Aravalli Biodiversity Park attract people of all ages, eager to document and preserve what still survives. It is perhaps this reawakening of interest—however late—that gives some hope for the future. When a child learns to tell the difference between a koel and a crow, when a retired bureaucrat takes up photographing kingfishers, when a school installs nest boxes in its playgrounds—these are not minor gestures. They are acts of reclaiming a deeper connection to the land, of asserting that even in Delhi, a city of asphalt and ambition, there is space for birdsong, and that is the city's most enduring anthem.
India.com
37 minutes ago
- India.com
Tropical Heaven Awaits: Discover 5 Magical Islands Near Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Udhagamandalam, popularly known as Ooty is situated in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Famous for its scenic beauty, cold weather and tea plantations; it attracts a large number of tourists every year. Situated in Nilgiri Hills, Ooty itself is an inland destination but there are a few tropical islands around it. While not directly touching Ooty, some tropical islands are available from this hill station that combine the tranquility of hill station life with exotic island adventures. 1. Andaman and Nicobar Islands Location and Accessibility Andaman and Nicobar Islands are among the most famous tropical destinations near Ooty which consists of group of islands in Bay of Bengal. Airports from major cities such as Chennai and Kolkata connect Port Blair, the capital city well to where you can easily get a flight by traveling via Chennai or Bangalore from Ooty. Attractions The pristine beaches, clear waters and rich marine life make the Andaman Islands renowned tourist attractions. The famous swimming spots on Havelock (now Swaraj Dweep) and Neil (now Shaheed Dweep) offer immaculate sandy shores as well as excellent snorkelling and scuba diving possibilities. Radhanagar Beach at Havelock Island has consistently been rated as one among Asia's top beaches. Activities Tourists can engage in all sorts of aquatic sports like snorkeling across coral reefs or find out about Cellular Jail at Port Blair which recalls some tragic history connected with these lands. There are also opportunities for trekking through dense forests, bird watching or exploring indigenous cultures. 2. Lakshadweep Islands Location and Accessibility Lakshadweep is another beautiful tropical destination which is an archipelago consisting of 36 islands that lies in Arabian Sea north of Ooty. The distance between Ooty and Kochi (Cochin), Kerala from where you can board flights to reach the islands is about 280 kilometers. Furthermore, there are ships that operate in between Kochi and Lakshadweep. Attractions Lakshadweep is known for its pristine beauty and less commercialized environment compared to other tropical destinations. The quiet shores of Agatti, Bangaram and Kadmat are famous tourist attractions amid the clear waters. This region has some of the best preserved coral reefs on Earth. Activities The island offers a wide variety of water-related activities including snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking or fishing. They have an enchanting underwater world with colorful coral formations and numerous species of fish. The place also suits someone looking for a quiet retreat offering solace. 3. Sri Lanka Location and Accessibility Sri Lanka is another tropical heaven that one can get to form Ooty found off the southern coast of India as the closest among other destinations. If traveling from Ooty to Sri Lanka the simplest way is to go via Chennai or Bangalore then take a direct flight to Colombo which serves as Sri Lanka's capital city,. Attractions From untouched beaches up to cultural heritage sites, Sri Lanka has it all in terms of tourist attractions. Bentota Beaches, Mirissa and Unawatuna are well known for their beauty as well as water sports activities taking place within them. Moreover, Kandy, Anuradhapura and Sigiriya positioned within what is commonly referred as cultural triangle bring out this country's rich history with its ancient buildings still venerated today. Activities Tourists in Sri Lanka can enjoy surfing, whale watching and diving in the coastal areas. For instance, in the inland they have tea plantations, national parks like the Yala and Udawalawe, and historical sites. Additionally, Sri Lanka abounds with unique wildlife species including elephants, leopards as well as many bird species. 4. Maldives Location and Accessibility The Maldives is a bit further yet beautiful tropical heaven in Indian Ocean worth going to. To reach the Maldives from Ooty one will typically travel by either Chennai or Bangalore or Kochi then take a flight to Male, the capital of Maldives. Attractions Luxury resorts over water bungalows and stunning beaches are some of things that come into mind when it comes to The Maldives. Often each island has only one resort meaning you get an exclusive private experience. It is also favored by honeymooners and high-end travelers due to its clear blue waters with vibrant coral reefs as well as abundant marine life. Activities Water sports available at the Maldives include snorkeling, scuba diving, jet skiing as well as sailing among others. In terms of underwater scenery featuring rich marine biodiversity, this is some of best in world today. One can engage into spa treatments; frequent fine dining places and for example romantic excursions such sunset cruises. 5. Pamban Island (Rameswaram) Location and Accessibility Pamban Island is much closer to Ooty than any other mentioned island also known Rameswaram Island. This place is situated within Tamil Nadu state while it can be reached either rail or road network. It is linked up with mainland India through Pamban Bridge which is famous all over India. Attractions Rameshwaram holds immense religious significance being one of twelve Jyotirlinga temples called Ramanathaswamy Temple. For example, the island has a beautiful beach named Dhanushkodi Beach, which is known to have preserved its natural beauty despite much destruction in the past. Activities Besides visiting the temple, tourists can go to the beaches, swim in the sea and participate in activities such as bird watching and taking photographs. Nearby is Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park with diverse marine life where snorkeling and scuba diving are great. Wrapping Up While Ooty itself is a landlocked hill station, the allure of tropical islands nearby offers an exciting juxtaposition of experiences. From secluded beaches and coral reefs found in Andaman and Nicobar Islands Lakshadweep to culture rich Sri Lanka luxury Maldives historic Pamban Island there are different tropical paradises just around the corner for everyone. Each offers unique experiences combining nature's beauty, adventure and cultural insights making them perfect for any traveler who wants to discover more than idyllic hills around Ooty.
Hindustan Times
2 hours ago
- Hindustan Times
‘Mat aao Europe': Indian tourist's honest take on Europe's summer heat sparks online buzz
An Instagram reel by an Indian tourist is going viral for showing the not-so-glamorous side of travelling in Europe during the summer. The reel, titled 'Mat aao Europe' (Don't come to Europe), has caught the attention of many users online. Hot weather, pricey water, and no AC- an Indian tourist shares Europe's harsh summer reality.(Pexels) The viral reel was shared by Instagram user @pandeyjipardesi. In the video, Bulbul Pandey (pandeyjipardesi) talks about the extremely hot weather across European cities. 'Bahut garmi hai,' he says, adding that there's no AC, and not even a fan in many places. He also mentions that most cities smell bad, saying some streets smell like urine. Accommodation isn't any better- he mentions that living spaces are not only costly but also extremely small, describing them as "dibbe jaise chote kamre" According to him, even a small bottle of water can cost 2 to 2.5 euros in Europe. He suggests Indian tourists should avoid travelling in the hot summer and come in September or October instead. In the reel, he even says it's better to 'stay in India and enjoy' than suffer in Europe's heat without AC or fans. Check out the viral video here: The reel was posted on July 2, 2025, and since then, it has garnered more than 4.5 lakh views and several comments. Here's how people reacted to this video: The video sparked mixed reactions on Instagram. Some praised him for being honest and sharing the reality behind the "dream vacation". However, a few others felt he was exaggerating and said that summer in Europe is manageable if planned well. One of the users, @amarkaur05, commented, 'I don't know which place you went to Europe, no doubt it's warm, but there are air conditioners on the train, the tram, bus, and the hotels everywhere. It's beautiful. Don't spread rumours. I was there last week, and that's amazing.' A second user, @mansiei, commented, 'Europe is no more on my list now. I already did not want to go. Now this video is like not going ever in summer.' Another user, @ commented, 'Rightly said. Water and restaurant food are very expensive in Spain.' Many viewers agreed with the tourist, saying they had also faced the same issues during their summer trips to Europe, especially the heat, lack of AC, and high costs.
