Understanding Our Backyard: Rivers of the Western Ghats | The Big Day
The Western Ghats, just six hours from Bangalore, are among the world’s most critical ecosystems. Yet for many of us living in the city, they remain out of sight and out of mind.
But here’s the truth: we don’t need to escape to faraway places to reconnect with nature. There’s wonder in what’s already around us, in the birds on our balconies, the trees lining our streets, and the monsoon frogs singing in roadside puddles.
The second edition of Understanding Our Backyard (UoB2) will take place on 21st of September, spotlighting the rivers of the Western Ghats in celebration of World Rivers Day.
UoB2 invites Bangaloreans to reflect, engage, and act for our rivers and lakes, through workshops, art, dance, discussions and more.
We have an exciting day planned for you.
Event Program:
The Flow Begins | 1:00 pm
Our doors open, and the River welcomes you into her embrace.
Journey by Paddle | 2:00 pm
Abhi Mandela shares stories and insights from his days paddling across the Rivers of the Western Ghats.
BLR: Where is Your Water Coming From? | 3:00 pm
A panel of researchers, visionaries, and experts trace the journey of your water and the future being shaped for our rivers and riverine ecosystems.
Stories of the Living World | 4:00 pm
A film screening that will transform the way you see and interact with the natural world.
Riverside Chat | 5:00pm
Gather by the River to listen to stories and insights from those who know her best.
Flow in Flight | 6:30 pm
An aerial silk and dance showcase, interpreting the River through the artist’s eyes.
Pravaha | 7:00 pm
A dinner experience by Pinch of South, offering an intimate exploration of our Rivers through taste and tradition. (Pravaha is a ticketed experience.)
Activities running throughout the day:
Humans of the Western Ghats: Stories of people living closely with Rivers
Explore the canopy: What life looks like high in the trees
Storytelling Circle with Mycelium: Gather for tales of land and water
Sketch the Rivers of the Western Ghats: Draw the flow of our Rivers
Water Under the Microscope: See hidden life in every drop