RANGANATHITTU
Arathi Rao

The ancient river Kaveri caresses our rowboat as it glides toward the 
Ranganathittu bird sanctuary. The vessel draws to the preserve and a 
"hunk, hunk," is heard--the jarring call that the White Ibis makes when it is 
alarmed. The majestic bird is seen skimming the water and strong wings slice the dawn in a V. An Ibis had been an Egyptian scribe of God. A ghostwriter. The approaching trees are an emerald air carpet for birds from around the planet to roost and breed. Ranganathittu is a photographers Eden. There are twig aviaries, which hang as golden jewels, from arm branches. This is not a silent place. Operas of birds triumph. An azure striped Kingfisher perches. A painted moment. An open-bill Stork drinks the Kaveri as the sun rises.