Who is S Bharathidasan and what is his mission?

S Bharathidasan is a conservationist dedicated to saving endangered vultures, primarily using street theatre and puppet shows.

What are the main threats to vultures in India?

Vultures face threats from poisoning via veterinary drugs found in carcasses and a shortage of their natural food sources.

Where are vulture conservation efforts by Arulagam focused?

Arulagam focuses its vulture conservation performances in villages within the Kerala-Tamil Nadu-Karnataka trijunction.

Home / Environment / Street Theatre: Saving India's Vultures

Street Theatre: Saving India's Vultures

1 Jan

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Summary

S Bharathidasan uses street theatre and puppet shows for vulture conservation.
Vulture numbers decline due to poisoning from non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
The Kerala-Tamil Nadu-Karnataka trijunction is a key area for vulture sightings.

S Bharathidasan embarked on a mission to conserve endangered vultures after witnessing their plight. For the past 13 years, he has utilized street theatre and puppet shows through his organization, Arulagam, to educate the public. These performances are concentrated in the Kerala-Tamil Nadu-Karnataka trijunction, a critical habitat for vulture populations.

Bharathidasan's initiative targets vulture hotspot villages, delivering 20-minute shows that convey vital conservation messages. Pamphlets are distributed to enhance outreach. The narratives creatively integrate vulture conservation, drawing parallels from epics and folklore, and addressing contemporary issues to resonate with local communities.

The decline of vultures is primarily attributed to the misuse of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, which poison carcasses, their main food source, and a general scarcity of food. Arulagam, comprising volunteers and a dedicated team, actively works to counter these threats and elevate the profile of these essential ecosystem contributors.