Why in the News
- World Sparrow Day (March 20) highlights declining sparrow populations and their cultural significance, especially in Sikh tradition.
Sparrow: Ecological Importance
- One of the most common birds in human settlements
- Plays role in:
- Insect control
- Maintaining urban biodiversity
- Decline linked to:
- Urbanisation
- Loss of nesting spaces
- Pollution
‘Chidi’ in Sikh Tradition
Symbolism
- Sparrow (‘chidi’) represents: Ordinary, weak, or downtrodden people
Spiritual Meaning
- In Sikh philosophy: Even the weakest can become powerful through divine grace and courage
Cultural Expression
- Sikh teachings, especially in: Guru Granth Sahib
- Use nature imagery: Birds, animals, insects
- Reflects rural Punjabi life and ethics
Famous Metaphor
- Linked with Sikh ethos: “Making sparrows fight hawks”
- Symbolises: Empowerment of the weak against the strong
Broader Insight
- Sparrow is not just a bird but: A moral and spiritual metaphor
- Shows connection between: Nature and religious philosophy
| [2013] Consider the following Bhakti Saints: 1. Dadu Dayal 2. Guru Nanak 3. Tyagaraja Which among the above was/were preaching when the Lodi Dynasty fell and Babur took over? (a) 1 and 3 (b) 2 only (c) 2 and 3 (d) 1 and 2 |
