Page 12 - March - 2025 ST

Things to Do
Finding Peace in
Birdwatching
Vickram Sethi on the joys of
spotting winged wonders
Kuhu kuhu bole koyaliya
Kahe kahe ghata mein bijali chamaki
Contrary to popular belief, it is not the
koyaliya who sings; it is the male koyal
that has the sweet, melodious call. Listen
to this call in the silence of the morning,
just before dawn—it is a voice that reaches
straight to the heart. The distant call of
a peacock or the gentle cooing of a dove
evokes a similar feeling. These are sounds
that touch both the heart and the mind.
Immerse yourself in the tranquil world
of birdwatching, where every flutter of
wings and every chirp transports you away
from the noise of daily life. For seniors,
birdwatching is more than just a hobby—it
is a source of calm and a deep connection
with nature, essential for overall well-
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being. It offers not only a chance to
admire the avian world’s beauty but also
a therapeutic escape. Observing birds in
their natural habitat has a soothing rhythm
that can significantly reduce stress and
promote inner peace.
Birdwatching is not just a pastime; it is
a form of therapy that nurtures mental
and emotional well-being. It encourages
mindfulness, drawing one’s attention
away from daily worries. The simple act
of watching birds—seeing them flit from
branch to branch, listening to their songs,
and observing their daily routines—offers
a sense of stability and reassurance,
especially in an ever-changing world.
The vivid colours of birds bring
undeniable joy. The turquoise and red
of the kingfisher, the deep purple of the
sunbird, the striking yellow and black
of the golden oriole, and the scarlet hues