Couple feeds 6,000 birds daily for last 15 years; transforming rooftop into haven
by Ekta ChaubeyIn an incredible act of kindness, a couple has been feeding 6,000 parrots every day for the last 15 years on their rooftop, which has become a haven for many birds.
Thousands of birds visit the couple’s terrace in the heart of Chennai city, in southern India’s Tamil Nadu on 11 January.
Visuals show the couple, A.M.V. Sudharsan Sah and his wife Vithya preparing the terrace with soaked rice and raw groundnuts on wooden planks for the birds. Hundreds of parrots enjoy their meal while some perch on a tree nearby. The green birds share their food with a few pigeons. It’s such a treat for the eyes to see the birds flying off together after finishing their meal. Sudharsan is seen chatting with a few visitors while ensuring the birds remain undisturbed.
Their selfless journey began after the death of Sudharsan’s father, when he was inspired by an elderly woman feeding crows. The small gesture has now blossomed into a remarkable ritual.
The couple begin their day at 4:30 am, soaking rice and preparing the terrace for their feathered visitors. They provide around 132 pounds of rice daily, spending approximately $35 (Rs 3000) each day. To avoid scaring the birds, the duo limits visitors to 25 per day, including birdwatchers from countries like the U.S. and Japan. Visitors are encouraged to bring raw peanuts as a gift for the birds, as roasted peanuts and brown rice are harmful to them.
In January, the couple fed around 10,000 birds. To accommodate the growing flock, Sudharsan has expanded the feeding area from two wooden planks to 35 platforms. The couple has transformed their rooftop into a sanctuary for birds, living a real-life fairy tale. Their kindness and dedication to the birds reflect their profound love for them.
*Exclusive Video rights*