"Kabootarbaazi, derived from the Hindi/Urdu word for pigeon, flourished under the patronage of Mughal rulers who governed India. Men would maintain flocks, teach them formation flying, and employ them as messengers."
"Training these birds to fly directly against the wind and return from long distances requires nearly four months of dedicated work. The process involves creating loud noises by striking a whip against hard surfaces, frightening the birds into flying farther away."
"For many practitioners, the rooftop gatherings hold as much significance as the flying itself. They describe kabootarbaazi as a therapeutic practice that creates a sanctuary of peace and fellowship amid the city's chaos."
"We sit with our friends and students, and all the tensions from our work or homes, all of it disappears, and that's what the main intention behind pigeon keeping is."
Pigeon-keeping, or kabootarbaazi, remains a cherished tradition in Delhi, providing a therapeutic escape for residents. Practitioners gather on rooftops to train and release over 120 pigeons, engaging in formation flying and races. This practice, rooted in Mughal history, requires months of training and fosters community bonds. Participants find solace in these gatherings, which alleviate daily stresses. The tradition emphasizes the importance of fellowship and peace, making pigeon-keeping a significant cultural activity in the bustling city.
Read at www.aljazeera.com
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