As the nation eagerly anticipates the consecration of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, devotees are immersing themselves in various celebrations and symbolic rituals associated with the Ramayana. In Agra, a significant number of Ram devotees gathered at the Chambal Wildlife Sanctuary, eager to witness the Indian roller birds, locally known as Neelkanth birds, believed to hold auspicious significance in the epic saga.
According to environmentalist and wildlife enthusiast Devashish Bhattacharya, the Chambal region has experienced a notable increase of around 4 percent in the population of Neelkanth birds. These birds, known for their vibrant blue plumage on the throat and chest, have long been associated with the Ramayana.
Vijay Upadhyay, a social worker, shared the belief that before Lord Ram conquered Ravana’s Lanka, he had seen the Neelkanth bird. In the Ramayana, it is believed that after witnessing this bird, Lord Ram achieved victory over Ravana. The Neelkanth bird is also considered a form of Lord Shiva.
Explaining the connection between Lord Ram and the Neelkanth bird, Vishal Sharma, Vice Chairman of Hindustani Biradari, said that before defeating Ravana, Lord Ram touched the leaves of the ‘Shami’ tree and then conquered Lanka after encountering the Neelkanth bird. This association has led to the bird being considered an auspicious symbol.
In Hindu mythology, Lord Ram performed severe penance to Lord Shiva, accused of the sin of killing a Brahmin (Ravana). Lord Shiva appeared in the form of Neelkanth during this penance, further strengthening the bird’s significance in the Hindu holy book.
With references to the Neelkanth bird in the Ramayana, people are flocking to locations where these birds are abundant for an ‘auspicious darshan.’ Found predominantly in tropical regions, Neelkanth birds exhibit distinctive characteristics, with their blue throat and chest earning them the name ‘Neelkanth,’ which means ‘blue throat.’
The Neelkanth bird, often distinguished from the Kingfisher despite certain morphological differences, showcases a unique blend of brown and white streaks on its neck, a blue head and belly, and primary feathers with pale blue and purple-blue tinges.
