In the past, pigeons were used to convey messages but now they have been a part of most families in Old Delhi. The pigeons are called 'kabootars' and are well loved by mostly the Muslim population in Old Delhi.
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| LOVELY SIGHT WHERE A FATHER-SON DUO THROWING GRAINS OF FOOD INTO THE AIR WHERE THEY WERE SCOOPED UP BY THE KABOOTARS (SOURCE: GOOGLE) |
Standing on one of the rooftops one can see these beautiful birds flying fast and taking sharp turns. The whistles along with the calling sounds for the pigeons are unlike anything one would hear above the cacophony of Old Delhi. The cooing of the birds, and the whistling and coaxing from the master, is just entrancing. The sight and sound is magical, especially at sunset. Flying the pigeons is a family affair. This Kabootar racing has been a favourite pastime for centuries, in Delhi. Even the fog and smog of modern city life has thankfully not affected this wonderful sight. Pigeon racing is a pastime that is passed on from father to son, and thus the sport has been kept alive for so many years. Even today there are races (some over very long distances - Delhi to Kolkata). The rooftops in Delhi are not just rooftops - they become recreation areas for families and one can look down from taller buildings and see the life that happens here.
The video projects "The Masakali Trail in Puraani Dilli" at one of the rooftops of the area. The flock coming as a united team, the noise of the flapping of the feathers and the cooing of the birds are the beautiful sights.
MASAKALI TRAIL IN OLD DELHI, SOURCE: YOUTUBE
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