Pune Woman Celebrates Birthday by Distributing Water Pots for Birds Amid Scorching Heat

Pune, May 7 – While many celebrate their birthdays with grand flex banners, cakes, or lavish parties, a local woman in Pune has chosen a heartwarming path. Amruta Pathare, Deputy City Chief of Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) Women’s Wing, marked her birthday by distributing earthen pots filled with water for birds struggling to survive the brutal summer heat.

This unique gesture, aimed at quenching the thirst of voiceless birds, comes at a time when Pune is experiencing a significant spike in temperature, making water sources scarce for both humans and animals.

---

A Compassionate Initiative Amid Rising Temperatures

As the mercury soars across Maharashtra, urban areas like Pune have seen a visible decline in natural water bodies. Birds, especially in densely populated neighborhoods, find it increasingly difficult to access drinking water. Recognizing this harsh reality, Amruta Pathare decided to channel her birthday celebrations into a noble cause that directly benefits urban wildlife.

Speaking to local reporters, she said,

“Instead of spending money on birthday banners or showy events, I felt it was more meaningful to help the birds who silently suffer in the heat. These earthen pots will ensure they get water nearby and won’t have to struggle.”

---

Event Backed by Local Leaders and NGOs

The distribution drive was supported by Amrut Bahuuddeshiya Sanstha, a local NGO, and saw participation from several notable figures from the community. Among the dignitaries present were Pooja Dhumal, National President of the Amrut Bahuuddeshiya Sanstha; Alka Sonawane, Shiv Sena Taluka Coordinator; and Godavari Kale of the Purva Sable Bhajani Mandal.

The pots were distributed across key areas in Pune with instructions to residents to refill them daily and place them in shaded corners. The initiative hopes to encourage more citizens to take part in such eco-friendly actions.

---

Local Response and Social Media Buzz

Residents who received the pots appreciated the thoughtfulness behind the campaign. Social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook also saw posts and stories praising the effort, with many users promising to adopt similar practices during the summer.

Environmental groups in Pune applauded the initiative, calling it a “model example” of how personal celebrations can contribute to the city’s ecological well-being.

---

Why Earthen Pots Matter for Birds

Earthen pots, also known as “matkas,” are ideal for birds during summer because they keep water cooler naturally and are safe for small beaks. Unlike plastic containers that heat up quickly and may contain harmful chemicals, clay pots offer a natural and sustainable alternative.

Experts say that small acts like placing water bowls in balconies, terraces, or gardens can help reduce bird mortality in cities during peak summer.

---

An Appeal to Citizens

Pooja Dhumal, who heads the supporting NGO, emphasized the broader message behind the initiative.

“This is not just about one birthday or one person. We urge every citizen to put out water for birds. It’s a small step, but it can save many lives,” she stated.

The team plans to monitor the locations where the pots were placed and conduct follow-ups to ensure the practice continues throughout the season.

---

Moving Beyond Tokenism

In an age where social work is often done for social media clout, Amruta Pathare’s silent, meaningful birthday celebration sets a different standard. Her initiative goes beyond token charity—it directly contributes to wildlife welfare in an urban landscape facing rising ecological stress.

As temperatures in Pune continue to rise, more such grassroots efforts will be crucial in ensuring the city’s non-human residents are not forgotten.