Affection between human beings and wildlife often creates remarkable stories of devotion. In the city of Dhamtari, a resident has built a connection with urban birds that has captured the admiration of the entire locality. Prakash Advani, a local shopkeeper, has maintained a unique friendship with crows spanning over 24 years. Every single morning, his rooftop transforms into a gathering spot for hundreds of these birds, who arrive without fail to receive their daily share of food directly from his hands.
A Small Business Supporting a Daily Commitment
Living near Ganesh Chowk in Dhamtari, Prakash Advani operates a small retail cloth shop located in the busy Gol Bazar area. The income earned from this modest venture is what sustains his household and family needs. Even within these limited financial resources, Advani conscientiously allocates a portion of his daily earnings solely to take care of his winged companions. Long before the morning rush begins, he prepares specific treats that the birds relish, standing patiently on the roof to feed them by hand as they gather around him without fear.
Seasonal Arrival of Migratory Black Crows
This enduring association features an extraordinary seasonal event that astonishes neighbors every year. Around the onset of Pitru Paksha, large numbers of foreign black crows begin visiting Advani's rooftop alongside the resident birds. These seasonal visitors make the rooftop their regular feeding ground for nearly two to three months before quietly journeying onward to unknown destinations. The precision with which these birds return year after year remains a striking highlight of Advani's bond with them.
From Family Skepticism to Community Inspiration
Initially, Advani's dedication faced questions at home. His family members were initially upset over diverting a steady share of hard-earned retail profits toward feeding wild birds. However, witnessing his steadfast routine and pure intent over the years transformed their perspective, earning him their complete support and respect. Today, Advani expresses continuous concern over increasing environmental pollution, which has made crows remarkably rare across most parts of Dhamtari city. Despite their scarcity elsewhere, the daily gathering of hundreds on Advani's terrace serves as a powerful inspiration for city residents and environmental awareness.
