Nest assured

At Tanuj Desai’s bungalow in Vadodara’s Alkapuri, which is always buzzing with traffic, the lawns are fizzing with sparrows from dawn to dusk. The architect’s abode is nothing less than a five-star retreat for the spuggies that fly in by the dozen every morning . They get treated to sunflower seeds kept in the bird feeder and then rest in the nests specially installed for them in the bungalow. “ When more sparrows started flocking to the nests at my house, I felt that I should promote the cause of sparrow conservation by ensuring that these little birds get cozy homes and good food across the city. That is how, my initiative, Star India was born,”
Desai told TOI. In November 2020, he launched Star India and announced a first-of-its-kind contest to find the most creative sparrow nests. “I invited entries from across the country. Students, professionals and even retired senior citizens made sparrow nests using a variety of materials including wood, jute and cardboard,” Desai said. He collaborated with architecture colleges for the cause and soon, uniquely designed sparrow nests started coming in. This year, the contest has received more than 580 entries from across India. “We also sensitize people about sparrows and how their existence is threatened. We grew up among these birds but were too busy to notice their gradual disappearance,” Desai added. “With sustained efforts from citizens, the house sparrows have started making a comeback. Their numbers have increased in the urban localities of Vadodara. This is certainly a heartening news for bird lovers,” he said.