Chabutra is a feeding table for birds, set up in homes and gardens in
Gujarat. Chabutra is derived from the word ‘Kabutar’ meaning pigeon.
Gujarati chabutras can be of various shapes and sizes. Some can be as large as a room. These elevated platforms are built from stone and bricks, which provide refuge to a variety of birds. On the platform a dish of water and some food is provided for the birds.
Although the form of the chabutras incorporates the influences of Hindu, Muslim and Jain architectural designs, the practice of putting up these bird feeding tables is linked to the Jain faith which preaches non-violence and humanity. The people of Gujarat also believe that after death a person’s soul assumes the form of birds and animals. To take care of the souls of their ancestors, the people of Gujarat take care of birds by putting food, water and providing shelter in chabutras. The chabutra is also symbolic of man’s concern with nature.
