The peacock captivates us with its colourful plumage. We are amazed to hear the parrot speak like a human. The rooster commands respect when it crows at the crack of dawn. Our hearts melt at the sight of the dove, the universal symbol of peace. In stark contrast, the crow is unfortunate — it seldom receives the admiration and appreciation it deserves.
Observing the Crow's Unique Traits
It takes patience, an open mind and careful observation to treat this bird on a par with other avian species. The crow feeds on things most of us would not even bear to look at. Unlike pigeons and sparrows, crows rarely invade our homes or build nests inside them. Instead, they dwell on treetops and atop signal posts.
Cultural Beliefs and Superstitions
There are people who regard the crow as a harbinger of gloom and doom; some others think that it heralds the arrival of a guest. I did not believe in its 'premonitory' powers until a sad incident made me review my opinion.
A Personal Anecdote
Several years ago, my father was in hospital in a critical condition. One day, my mother went to the terrace to hang up a sari on the clothesline. Suddenly, a crow swooped down from nowhere and pecked her hard on the head. She began bleeding profusely. As we dressed her wound, she feared that something terrible must have happened. Right then, the telephone rang. A caller from the hospital informed us that my father had passed away about 15 minutes earlier.
'Even if a crow merely brushes your head with the tip of its wing while flying overhead, it means bad news is on the way,' my grandmother used to say.
The Crow's Selective Eating Habits
One cannot assume that the crow will readily consume whatever is offered. The proverb, 'You can lead a horse to water, but you cannot make it drink,' applies equally well to crows. You may place food before a crow — especially pinda, an offering made to departed souls — but you cannot compel it to eat. According to popular belief, if a crow refuses the offering, it suggests that the deceased harbours a grievance or that some offence has been committed.
Astrological Significance
My problems during 'Shani Dasha' prompted me to consult our family astrologer. He advised me: 'To please Shani Dev, praise the crow to the skies.' I have done the needful!
The writer is a Chennai-based freelance contributor.
