Tamil Nadu village avoids Diwali firecrackers to protect fruit bat colony
Residents of Perambur in Mayiladuthurai district have refrained from bursting crackers for over a century to safeguard a banyan tree roosting site.
Residents of Perambur, a village near Kollidam in Tamil Nadu's Mayiladuthurai district, have avoided bursting firecrackers for more than 100 years. According to a report by Firstpost, the community maintains this tradition to protect hundreds of fruit bats living in a banyan tree known as Vavvaal Thoppu, or the Bat Grove.
The banyan tree, believed to be over 150 years old, is considered sacred and houses a shrine dedicated to Lord Muneeswaran. During Diwali, villagers celebrate by lighting lamps and gathering at local temples instead of using fireworks near the bats' roosting site.
The colony consists of Indian flying foxes, a large species of fruit bat that feeds on nectar and fruit. These animals help pollinate plants and disperse seeds, supporting the regeneration of local vegetation and the wider ecosystem.
The tradition has attracted interest from nature enthusiasts, leading to discussions about developing the grove for eco-tourism. While some residents believe this could create jobs, others worry that increased footfall might disturb the colony.
A debate exists regarding access to the site, which is located about one kilometre from the residential area. While villagers requested a road be restored to the site in October 2025, forest officials expressed caution regarding potential disturbances to the habitat.