“If we speak for them because they cannot speak for themselves, does that absolve us from understanding their physical pain or emotional suffering with a little humanity?”—this poignant question formed the core theme of “Obola: The Unexpressed Silent Cries of Animals,” an awareness-driven discussion organized by Saraswati Bhandar.
Saraswati Bhandar has consistently worked on issues concerning voiceless beings. Its earlier initiatives include publishing books at the Kolkata Book Fair with the participation of a pet dog “Chiku” despite several obstacles, organizing a Pet Friendly Fair inside the Belgachia Veterinary Hospital, and creating social awareness through celebrations like Bhai Phonta and Shasthi for street animals and birds.
Continuing this commitment, Saraswati Bhandar organized a discussion meeting on 2nd February at Abanindra Sabhaghar. The discussion saw the presence of several individuals who tirelessly work for the welfare of street animals and birds and who stand firmly against injustice towards voiceless creatures. Notable among them were eminent poet, litterateur and journalist Syed Hasmat Jalal, singer Shubhayu Banerjee, Mahua Dutta, and Sri Ratan Jhawar, among others.
The programme was conducted by Jharna Bhattacharya, the driving force behind Saraswati Bhandar. In her address, she stated, “Saraswati Bhandar works against linguistic violence and has always protested through words wherever the human soul bleeds. We will continue to do so—whether the victim is voiced or voiceless. As human beings, is it really a loss to be a little more humane?”
She further reflected on the irony of grand cultural celebrations like the book fair—crowded with people and social media images—while many pets remain locked alone at home, frightened because they are not allowed entry, or countless street animals suffer from sound and air pollution, often losing their mental balance. “If such massive festivals are centered on books, education and knowledge, then their true success lies in illuminating all aspects of society. Only then will the spread of knowledge reduce narrow-mindedness and make these celebrations truly meaningful,” she concluded.
The discussion left a strong message: compassion must extend beyond humans, and awareness is the first step toward justice for the voiceless.
