The Decline of Vulture Populations and Impact on Parsi Burial Traditions

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This chapter delves into the historically significant Parsi practice of exposing bodies in Towers of Silence for vultures to consume them. It explores the decline of vulture populations in India due to the use of the drug Dyclofenac, leading to a crisis for the Parsi community relying on vultures for their burial rituals. The disappearance of vultures has created controversy and challenges for the community in continuing their traditional burial practices.

Situated right in downtown Mumbai, India is an area of about 55 acres of dense, overgrown forest. In one of the most populous cities in the world, this is a place where peacocks roam freely -- a space out of time. This forest is protected by a religious community. It has survived in a relatively undeveloped state in the middle of this gargantuan city. Importantly, it’s also home to an ancient tradition in crisis -- one that is central to the lives (and deaths) of a particular population.

There’s a certain point in this forest beyond which almost no one can step -- only special caretakers of these grounds can go any further. They go by many names: khandia, nassassalar, pallbearer, corpse bearer. Their work here is holy. They carry dead bodies to their final resting place – atop stone structures that stand gray against the lush green. These buildings are called Towers of Silence.

Towers of Silence

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