Delhi’s pigeon debate: Tradition clashes with experts’ advice

Amid Delhi’s bustling streets, crowded marketplaces, and relentless urban rhythm, an unassuming yet enduring practice quietly persists: feeding pigeons. This daily ritual, woven into the fabric of the city’s life, takes place in parks, courtyards, and historical landmarks, often overshadowed by its potential health implications.

Feeding pigeons is more than a simple act; it is a tradition that bridges generations, faiths, and social divides. For many, it represents a blend of spirituality, compassion, and cultural heritage that endures in a rapidly modernising metropolis.

The Public Works Department has razed a structure on the main road of CR Park, which had become a common pigeon-feeding spot, citing health and cleanliness issues. This decision has ignited a debate in the city, questioning whether public health should take precedence over deeply rooted traditions.

Patriot explored various pigeon-feeding spots in Delhi to understand the conflicting perspectives around this practice.

Cultural Heritage

For many residents, feeding pigeons is an act of spirituality and cultural heritage. They believe it’s their duty to give back to nature and provide for the voiceless creatures.

“For me, feeding pigeons is like offering a prayer,” says Shabnam Begum, a 52-year-old resident of Chandni Chowk, who has been feeding pigeons outside Jama Masjid for over two decades.

“My mother taught me this when I was a child. She believed it brought peace to the soul and blessings to the family,” she said.

Shabnam’s daily ritual continues despite growing awareness about the potential health risks. “How can I stop? They depend on us,” she says.

In the heart of Delhi, Rajesh Mehra, a 45-year-old shop owner, begins his day by feeding the pigeons in Connaught Place’s Central Park. Carrying a small bag of grains, he pauses before heading to his store in CP. “These pigeons are like my extended family,” he says, with a warm smile. “I’ve been feeding these birds for 15 years now. It’s a moment of calm before the chaos of the day begins.”

For Rajesh, the act is as much about the pigeons as it is about finding a sense of purpose. “In today’s world, where everything moves so fast, this small connection with nature helps me stay grounded,” he explains.

Lodhi Garden, a lush green oasis in South Delhi, is another haven for both pigeons and their feeders. Early mornings here are filled with the chatter of joggers, the rustle of leaves, and the cooing of pigeons. Renu finds solace in her daily ritual of feeding pigeons.

“For me, feeding pigeons is not just a spiritual act; it’s a way of connecting with nature in a city that’s losing its green spaces,” she says.

Watching the birds flutter and peck at the grains, she adds, “When I see them here, it feels like I’m doing my part to preserve a balance.”

Renu’s husband, Prakash, accompanies her most mornings. Together, they carry a small container of grains. “We’ve been doing this for over 10 years,” Prakash said.

“It’s a simple activity, but one that brings immense satisfaction,” Prakash added.

In the shadow of Agrasen Ki Baoli, an ancient stepwell in the heart of Delhi, retired schoolteacher Anil Sharma brings his grandson to feed pigeons every Sunday morning. For the Sharma family, this practice is more than an act of charity; it’s a tradition.

“I’ve been coming here since I was a boy,” says Anil, tossing a handful of wheat into the air. “Now I bring my grandson so he can learn the value of compassion.” Watching the birds flutter and peck at the grains, he adds, “Feeding these pigeons teaches patience and empathy, things that are hard to come by in today’s fast-paced life.”

Health risks and cleanliness concerns

On the other side of the debate are those who view pigeon feeding as a significant public health concern. The CR Park demolition is emblematic of a broader struggle to balance tradition with the realities of urban life.

“It’s frustrating to see people feed pigeons without considering the mess they leave behind. The droppings damage public property and create a breeding ground for germs,” says Sonu Kumar, a local resident.

Dr Neetu Jain, a pulmonologist at PSRI Hospital, warns that exposure to pigeon droppings and feathers can lead to severe respiratory conditions.

“Pigeons can cause various respiratory diseases, some of which can be life-threatening. These conditions can lead to a dependence on oxygen or the need for supplemental oxygen therapy. If there are more than 50 pigeons in a particular area, the risk of exposure to harmful antigens increases significantly,” Dr Neetu said.

“One of the most common diseases caused by exposure to pigeon droppings, feathers, or antigens is hypersensitivity pneumonitis. This condition develops when individuals become sensitive to antigens from pigeon droppings or feathers. Symptoms include shortness of breath, cough, and a gradual reduction in lung capacity,” she added.

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Dr Sunil Rana, Associate Director and Head of Internal Medicine at Asian Hospital, also highlighted the risks, saying, “Pigeons carry bacteria and fungi that can result in illnesses such as Psittacosis and Cryptococcosis, which pose serious risks to humans. Droppings that dry and turn to dust become airborne and can cause infections when inhaled.”

“To protect your home from pigeon-related risks,” Dr Sunil added, “install bird netting or spikes to discourage nesting. Keep your garden well-maintained and remove any bird feeders during nesting season.”

“In severe cases, it can cause pneumonia or even brain damage if left untreated,” Dr Sunil said.

A fractured community response

The decision to raze the feeding structure has divided the local community. While some residents supported the move, citing hygiene and health reasons, others lamented the loss of a cherished tradition.

“Feeding pigeons has been a tradition here for decades,” says Arun Sinha, a long-time CR Park resident. “It’s unfortunate, but I understand the reasons behind it.”

Others, like Mohit Gupta of Karol Bagh, view pigeon feeding as an act of penance. “In our faith, feeding birds is a way to give back to nature. It’s a reminder that we’re all connected,” he says.

“Feeding pigeons might seem like a compassionate act, but the growing population of these birds is becoming a health hazard. The bird droppings create unhygienic conditions, and the respiratory risks are real for those exposed to them regularly,” stresses 30-year-old Rajat Rathi.

Still, some residents call for the modernisation of these practices to address the growing pigeon population and its impact on urban spaces. “While people see it as spiritual, the reality is that it spreads diseases and worsens cleanliness. It’s time to rethink these outdated practices,” argues Mohammed Sufiyan.

Balancing tradition and progress

The dismantling of the CR Park structure symbolises the broader tension between maintaining traditions and prioritising public health. Experts suggest that alternatives, such as designated feeding zones managed for hygiene, could offer a compromise.

As Delhi grapples with these issues, one question looms large: Is preserving tradition worth the cost to public health? Or can a middle ground be found that respects both heritage and modern concerns?