Addressing the Silent Crisis

Amidst the backdrop of dwindling vulture populations, a grave concern often overlooked by both the public and authorities, Arulagam, a non-profit organization based in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, has taken up the mantle of vulture conservation. These remarkable creatures, often unsung heroes, play a vital role in our ecosystem by scavenging and cleansing the environment of carcasses. Alarmed by the endangerment of several vulture species in India, Arulagam has undertaken a multifaceted initiative to not only protect these essential birds but also raise awareness among the masses.

Art as a Catalyst for Change

Founded in 2002, Arulagam recently unveiled a unique strategy to advance the cause of vulture preservation: the fusion of art and conservation. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Hemant Soren, the organization initiated the creation of murals in villages located within the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve and the Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve in Erode district. This innovative approach seeks to utilize art as a powerful tool to not only draw attention to the importance of vultures but also engage the community in their protection.

SivaS. Bharathidasan, Secretary and Co-Founder of Arulagam, explained, “Art is a powerful tool for conservation. It can be used to educate people about environmental issues and to inspire them to take action. When art is done or kept in public places, it immediately grabs attention and has a long-lasting impact.”

Art for Awareness and Education

The murals, strategically placed in public spaces like bus stands, school buildings, and houses along main roads, act as interactive platforms for communication. Notably, the initiative collaborates with noted artist R. Sivakumar to bring these paintings to life. Sivakumar’s realistic depictions of over 250 birds, detailed in the book titled “Thiruvannamalai Mavatta Paravaikal,” have become catalysts for change.

Bharathidasan emphasized the significance of these murals, sharing that they not only create awareness but also foster local involvement. “When the artwork is being done, it attracts people, especially children, who are curious to know what is happening. Our volunteers use this opportunity to tell them about vultures, their importance in the ecosystem, what they can do to help in its conservation, and also distribute literature, pamphlets, and booklets on the subject.”

Promoting Coexistence and Responsibility

The murals address a range of misconceptions and issues surrounding vultures. They challenge the notion that vultures are dirty scavengers and emphasize their role in maintaining ecological balance. Additionally, the murals underline the lack of conflict between humans and vultures. Arulagam encourages villagers to report injured or abandoned chicks, fallen nests, and carcasses, promoting a harmonious relationship between the community and these vital creatures.

Expanding Horizons for Conservation

The initiative’s current focus is on villages within the vulture range in Tamil Nadu. However, Arulagam’s vision extends beyond these boundaries. Once the project’s success is established in Tamil Nadu, the organization intends to expand its efforts to the vulture habitats in Kerala and Karnataka.

Beyond the murals, Arulagam employs diverse methods to foster awareness, such as rallies, puppet shows, street plays, presentations, and exposure visits. Through these endeavors, the organization aims to create a lasting impact, securing a brighter future for vultures and their coexistence with humans.

Arulagam’s innovative approach not only underscores the crucial role vultures play in our environment but also showcases the potential of art as a driving force for conservation. As the murals continue to educate, inspire, and engage, they serve as a testament to the power of unity between artistic expression and environmental advocacy.

First Published in indiannarrative.

Feature Image: Driving home the point about saving vulture to save nature. Courtesy: indiannarrative

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