Meet Radhika Sonawane who turned environmental entrepreneur out of love for birds

The Covid period brought significant changes to daily life. Many people started habits and hobbies they hadn't had before. Many who had no connection with the soil started farming, experimented with different cooking methods, and started YouTube channels. It was during this time that Radhika Sonawane, a resident of Pune, was noticed for one such habit, which has now transformed into entrepreneurship.

While working from home as a finance professional, Radhika started paying attention to the birds visiting her home – something she hadn't had time for earlier due to her busy work schedule. She decided to be a good host to the birds. She created resting places for birds arriving tired from their flights, swings for entertainment, and food containers.

Soon, along with other birds, parrots became regular visitors to Radhika's home. Indian Ringneck Parakeets were the first to arrive, followed by Alexandrine Parakeets. Initially, the parrots were wary of Radhika, keeping their distance. About ten parrots came initially, but their number gradually increased. Eventually, around forty parrots visited her daily. Radhika learned their food preferences and provided them with grains, fruits, and water. Some parrots even brought their young ones to Radhika's home. Besides parrots, bulbuls, sparrows, and some squirrels also became regular visitors to Radhika's home in Pune's Karve Nagar.

Four years later, Radhika is an environmental entrepreneur. She has founded an online business portal called "Bird Duniya," selling various birdhouses, feeders for food and water, and other related items. Calling herself a "Bird Whisperer," Radhika also maintains an active Instagram profile with over 1.75 lakh followers, sharing pictures of the birds visiting her home and other tips for bird lovers.