I spotted two unusual looking leaves that seemed to be inserted in brown frames. Then, the leaves unfolded in perfect symmetry. It was a winged king who bore the name Common Nawab but was truly a spectacle to behold. The tips of his wings resembled a scabbard, yet I knew he was a gentle creature.

Common Nawab

The royal butterfly was seated on his flower throne, sipping nectar to his heart’s content. Then he gracefully took off into the air and an orchestra of bulbuls tweeted the background music. The stylish musicians were perched high on a tree. Their black Mohawks contrasted with their fiery red cheeks. Their white chests and black wings made them appear like penguins that could fly. That’s what makes Red Whiskered Bulbuls so fascinating.

Red Whiskered Bulbul

I was blessed with these magical sights at the Valley School campus in Bengaluru. My heart still flew high with the Common Nawab and the bulbuls, even as I returned to the city. If you wish to join me on my future sojourns, write to askthebirdman@gmail.com

Photos by: Siluvai Amalan

Write-up by: Siluvai Amalan & Niranjani