Bird Photo Show Opens in Kochi Highlighting Kerala's Avian Variety

The Induchoodan Foundation opened a bird‑photography exhibition at Durbar Hall Art Gallery in Kochi, displaying more than 50 pictures taken by 26 photographers. The show, titled Parannuyarunna Malayalam, is a tribute to naturalist KK Neelkantan, whose 1958 book Keralthile Pakshikal first catalogued Kerala’s birds. Founded in 2024 to mark Neelkantan’s birth centenary, the foundation is chaired by writer Paul Zacharia and has already held 15 exhibitions across the state. This is the third edition of the show in Kochi and will run until September 27. Curator M Ramachandran, who also contributed photos, says the collection features birds from various parts of Kerala and invites schools and colleges to visit. Naturalist and photographer Suresh Elamon, a disciple of Neelkantan, recalled spotting a Crab‑plover at Perumathura beach, a species later added to Neelkantan’s book and now shown in the gallery with a photo taken by Elamon in Kozhikode. Retired Air Force officer Dijumon Komanthakkal highlighted the endangered Banasura Laughing Thrush, noting its limited range in Kodagu and its status as the district bird of Wayanad. The exhibition also includes images of the White‑bellied Sea Eagle, Sri Lankan Frogmouth, Oriental Pratincole, Rufous Babbler, Malayan Night Heron and other species, each paired with a description from Neelkantan’s work. The event aims to raise awareness of Kerala’s birdlife and encourage younger generations to take up birdwatching and photography.