The Hindu : Kerala News : A book for ‘birdman’ on his birth anniversary

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Wednesday, Nov 07, 2007
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Kerala

A book for ‘birdman’ on his birth anniversary

‘Salim Ali: A portrait’ is a ‘gurudakshina’ to the revered ornithologist from his student

Salim Ali

This November 12 is the 111th birth anniversary Salim Ali, the birdman of India. He died more than a quarter century ago. But the passing years have not dulled the affection his students and colleagues have for him. They remember him as an affectionate man, a thorough professional and a perfectionist who took great pains to achieve the results.

On the birth anniversary, V.S. Vijayan, chairman of the Kerala State Biodiversity Board, is planning to bring out a book on Dr. Ali. In a way, the book titled ‘Salim Ali: A portrait’ would be a guru dakshina to the great teacher and bird lover.

In the book, published by Salim Ali Foundation, Coimbatore, his close friends, colleagues and students share their experiences with the revered ornithologist, says Dr. Vijayan.

His association with Dr. Ali began in 1969 when he joined his team as a research scholar at the Bombay Natural History Museum. “I did my doctoral studies on ecology of bulbuls in 70s under his guidance. I worked with him on a project on bird migration and also on one on the ecosystem of Bharatpur National Park,” recounts Dr. Vijayan.

Helping Silent Valley

Dr. Ali made, who had an excellent rapport with the late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, could convince her about the ecological loss if the Silent Valley project was implemented.

Ms. Gandhi had high regards for Dr. Ali and that worked in favour of the Save Silent Valley campaign, he says.

An affectionate person who always viewed conservation as a practical issue and not an emotional one. That was Dr. Ali.

He believed in Gandhism and led a spartan life, Dr. Vijayan adds.

R. Sugathan, renowned ornithologist, who reviewed Dr. Ali’s work ‘Birds of Kerala’ also, shares fond memories about him.

“His commitment to work was unmatched. He was a very warm person who always cared for nature,” remembered Dr. Sugathan, who was also his student.

K.S. Sudhi

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