Lasha Madan

Lasha Madan, a producer who reported from Mumbai, and Rashnit Pardiwala, a local with deep knowledge of the Dungarwadi forest, discuss the fascinating Towers of Silence. They delve into the sacred Parsi death rituals involving sky burials and the vital role of vultures, whose declining numbers threaten these traditions. Personal stories highlight the emotional struggles of the community as they confront modern challenges while striving to preserve their ancient practices amidst urbanization and ecological concerns.

Lasha Madan, a reporter with a focus on environmental issues, discusses the critical decline of vulture populations in India and its impact on the Parsi community's death rituals. The conversation reveals the emotional and logistical challenges faced by conservationists, especially during the COVID-19 lockdown. They explore the interdependencies between vultures, public health, and local economies while highlighting ongoing efforts to protect these vital scavengers. The episode also examines how urbanization threatens vulture habitats and the broader ecological consequences of their decline.