FADING FEATHERS
In the lush valleys of Kashmir, where the Himalayas meet the sky, many song birds once fluttered their wings, bringing joy to the hearts of many. Some birds like Sheene Pipin (Streaked Laughing Thrush), Poshnul (Golden Oriole), Hazar Dastan (Blue Whistling Thrush), Tch’aer (House Sparrow), Bil Bechur (Bulbul or nightingale), Rahte Mongul (Owl), Satut (Hoopoe) and Shoug (Parrot), etc. seen in flocks during different seasons, are hardly spotted now due to socio-cultural and climate change. However, many others like Barn Swallow, locally known as Katij have completely disappeared.
Katij (Hirundo rustica) is the most widespread and abundant swallow specie on the planet. It breeds in Eurasia and North America and derives its name from its habitat of nesting close to human settlements, specifically in structures like barn across Europe. In India, Katij is a summer breeding visitor to mid-elevation Himalayas where it builds cup shaped mud nests inside Kashmiri household especially in the corridors, locally called Wuzi, and shares a strong bond with Kashmiris—nurtured over generations as a symbol of happiness, luck and prosperity.
This migratory bird that made Kashmir its home has disappeared now, leaving behind a trail of memories. Its arrival was a harbinger of spring, a season of renewal and hope. As the snow melted and flowers bloomed, the sweet melodies of Katij filled the air, entrancing all who listened. With its brown and grey plumage, the Katij blended seamlessly into its surroundings, yet, its presence was unmistakable. Its chirping calls echoed through the valleys, a symphony of delight. It was more than just a bird; it was a symbol of resilience and adaptability. It braved the harsh winters and scorching summers, always returning to its beloved Kashmir.
According to Islamic tradition, Allah (SWT) sent a flock of Ababeel birds (type of barn swallow) which dropped small stones called “Sijjeel” onto the invading army to defend Kaaba Shrief when the Ethiopian governor of Yemen, Abraha’s army, which included war elephants, approached Makkah with the intention of demolishing the Kaaba. This is mentioned in holy Quran (Surah Al-Fil, 105:1-5)
In the villages, children would eagerly await the Katij’s arrival, watching in wonder as it flitted from branch to branch. The bird’s fearlessness and curiosity inspired many a young heart. As the seasons changed, the Katij would migrate to new lands, but its memory stayed, etched in the hearts of the people. Its absence was felt deeply, a reminder of the transience of life.
The Katij’s vanishing is a mystery, a tale of environmental neglect and human indifference. As habitats shrink and pollution grows, the sparrow’s song is silenced, leaving only echoes of a bygone era. In the stillness of the valleys, the bird’s absence is palpable, a sorrow that cannot be expressed. The bird’s disappearance is a loss, not just for Kashmir, but for the world.
Yet, even in its absence, the Katij’s legacy lives on. Its memory inspires us to cherish the beauty of nature, to protect the delicate balance of our ecosystem. I recall, we had a Katije Oal (swallow nest) under the Talav (ceiling) of corridor in our old house underneath we kept a gunny bag for the bird droppings called Raeke. In those days, there used to be swallow nests, here and there. Even if the matting and walls of the room would remain splashed all over with the poop, yet nobody dared to disturb or harm Katij and its fledglings. It was considered a sin.
The story of Katij becomes our own, a reminder of the beauty that has flown away, to hold dear every memory, and to never take for granted the beauty that surrounds us. For in the fleeting life of this avian bird, we find the preciousness of our own existence. In the silence left by the Katij’s departure, we find a profound truth: that life is precious, fragile, and fleeting. Yet, in its dearth, the bird’s spirit remains, a whispered promise of renewal and rebirth. As the seasons pass, and the winds change, we hold on to the hope that one day, the Katij will return, its wings beating strong, its song echoing through the valleys once more.
Let us remember the Katij’s song, its melody a reminder of the joy and wonder that nature brings. May its memory stir us to action, to preserve the beauty of Kashmir for generations to come. In the silence of the valleys, we hear the whispers of the Katij, urging us to act, to save the natural world from destruction. The Katij may be gone, but its spirit remains, a symbol of hope and resilience in the face of adversity. As we look to the skies, we remember the Katij, its wings a blur of motion, its song a symphony of delight. May its memory never fade—a reminder of the beauty and wonder that once was.
In a rapidly changing world, as the sun sets over the valleys of Kashmir, the Katij’s radiant plumage reminds us the big loss. Its memory also lingers, a bitter sweet truth of the transience of life. Its flight may have been fleeting, but its impact on our hearts remains a testament to the power of nature to touch our souls. As we gaze up at the empty skies, we are reminded to cherish the beauty that surrounds us, to hold dear the memories of what has been, and to hope for the return of what has flown away.
(Author is a regular columnist, author and educationist. Feedback: [email protected])
