Hekky Benakk: Three-Day Bird Festival Celebrating Dr. Salim Ali in Kalpetta, Wayanad, Kerala | Nov 2025
The hill town of Kalpetta in Wayanad came alive on 14 November with the inauguration of Hekky Benakk, a three-day bird festival held in honour of India’s iconic ornithologist, Dr. Salim Ali. Named after the Kattunaikka word for “bird festival,” Hekky Benakk is organised by the Hume Centre for Ecology and Wildlife Biology, a leading conservation-focused NGO based in Kalpetta.
The festival aims to cultivate a deeper public appreciation for birds and their ecological importance. Designed as an immersive, community-centered event, it offers participants a blend of learning, creativity, and nature exploration. Activities include bird photography sessions, workshops on bird calls and identification, expert-led birdwatching trails, and art exhibitions inspired by avian life.
A Grand Inauguration
The inaugural ceremony was graced by prominent dignitaries including:
- Dr. Pramod G. Krishnan, IFS, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Chief Wildlife Warden, Kerala
- Adv. T. Siddique, MLA, Wayanad
- Mr. Samshad Marakkar, President, District Panchayath, Wayanad
- Ms. Meghashree IAS, District Collector, Wayanad
Mr. O.R. Kelu, Minister for the Welfare of Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Backward Classes, Kerala, attended as the Chief Guest.
The keynote address was delivered by Dr. N. Anil Kumar, Chairman of the State Biodiversity Board, Kerala.
Other notable contributions included a special address by Mr. C. Sasikumar, Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Hume Centre, and a guest lecture by Ms. Suprabha Seshan, Ecologist at Gurukula Botanical Sanctuary.
A memorial talk dedicated to Shri M.P. Veerendrakumar was presented by writer O.K. Johnny, followed by an insightful session titled Why Bird Festival by Mr. C.K. Vishnudas, Director of the Hume Centre.
The event also featured felicitations from several local leaders and administrators, underscoring the region’s collective commitment to biodiversity conservation.
Arulagam Highlights the Importance of Vulture Conservation
Hume Centre extended its invite to Arulagam to participate in the Bird festival to represent Vultures. A key attraction at the festival was the stall set up by Arulagam, an organisation that has been working on vulture conservation for more than two decades. Their exhibit drew significant attention with:
- Vulture-themed artwork by artist Mr. Santhosh, created using coconut shells and pebble stones
- A model vulture nest demonstrating nesting behaviour and threats faced by the species
- Awareness materials in Malayalam, including posters and bookmarks
Arulagam also introduced an educational twist to the classic Snake and Ladder game, modifying it to depict the dangers of harmful NSAIDs and the challenges faced by vultures. Ms. Sreekala, a volunteer, guided children through the game, helping them understand how veterinary drugs affect vulture survival. A DIY bird mask activity further engaged young visitors.
The stall attracted a steady stream of bird enthusiasts, many of whom connected deeply with the conservation message and expressed support for Arulagam’s efforts.
Performance Arts Bring Conservation Messages to Life
Arulagam’s performance art team added a creative dimension to the festival. Dr. Venkat introduced a child-friendly bird mask–making kit designed with laser-cut precision, allowing children to assemble masks through simple folds—an activity aimed at sparking curiosity among young nature lovers.
In the evening, the team presented a powerful and engaging drama exploring themes of human greed and ecological imbalance. Mr. Govindharajan played the role of a king whose reckless actions lead to a decline in wildlife populations, particularly vultures. Through the narrative, the play highlighted the environmental consequences of harmful NSAIDs and concluded with an emotional appeal to protect wildlife and preserve the balance of nature.
Capturing the Beauty of Birds Through Photography
The Hume Centre also hosted two photography exhibitions:
- A gallery showcasing the colourful plumage of Wayanad’s birds
- A bird nesting display, featuring images of nests, eggs, and chicks accompanied by detailed descriptions
Another important section highlighted seven extinct bird species, with volunteers explaining the reasons for their decline and the lessons they offer for present-day conservation efforts.
A Celebration of Birds, Culture, and Conservation
With its blend of science, art, culture, and community participation, Hekky Benakk stands as a vibrant tribute to Dr. Salim Ali’s legacy and a reminder of the urgent need to protect India’s avian biodiversity. The festival continues through 16 November, offering participants—from children to experts—a rare opportunity to learn, engage, and reconnect with nature.