Jhore Jole Jongole the Eco-Heritage Resort took the initiative to organise a Tiger Festival for schoolchildren in Kolkata on the eve of World Tiger Day. Students from Ruby Park Public School, Apeejay Park Street, and Techno India Group Of Public Schools in Garia and Ariadaha actively participated in the celebration, making it a very memorable and energizing occasion. Teachers and a total of 20 kids attended the Tiger Festival in the spectacular Sundarbans forest.

The Tiger Festival aims to increase public awareness of the vital need for tiger conservation and the preservation of the distinctive and biodiverse Sundarbans ecosystem. Jhore Jole Jongole has always been dedicated to advancing ethical ecotourism and encouraging youth environmental responsibility.

The student’s arrival in Jhore Jole Jungle in the Sundarbans in the morning marked the start of the day-long program. Students shared inspiring tales about nature conservation and wildlife, including “Tiger Who Came To Tea” by Judith Kerr and Tiyash Ghosh, during a fascinating debate on tiger conservation.  TIGPS, GARIA, soul-stirring poetry like William Blake’s “The Tiger” — Lucas Olive Mondal TIGPS, GARIA, and locals’ accounts of tiger encounters and environmental protection. The students thoroughly loved the stroll to the tiger rescue facility.

The Sundarbans was a fascinating documentary that focused light on the ecological importance of this rare mangrove forest and its critical function in maintaining biodiversity. Following a delicious lunch where the children enjoyed regional flavors, a mask-making and hanky painting activity was used to test the students’ creativity. The tiger theme on the masks reinforced the festival’s main message, which called for the protection of these majestic animals.

The celebration of the spirit of the tiger and the significance of its conservation took on a dynamic tone as the pupils donned their handcrafted masks and danced with pure delight and excitement. Everyone in attendance had been affected by the day’s activities in a lasting way, fostering a closer relationship with nature.

The participating students received specially created T-shirts and caps as part of the event, serving as mementos of their amazing adventure into the heart of the Sundarbans.

Priyanka Dutta