‘Don’t sacrifice owls on Diwali,’ Punjab animal rights activist makes an appeal

Jain explained that while owls are considered the vaahan (carriers) of Goddess Lakshmi, some people are misguided by sorcerers (tantriks) into sacrificing the bird.

“Having blind faith in tantriks and other priests who encourage people to sacrifice owls for wealth, people brutally kill owls during the puja. They use the birds’ blood, skull, kidney, heart, talons, feathers, beak, and meat, claiming it’s an auspicious part of Hindu culture. However, this is not true; our Rishi Munis or any Ved Puranas never recommended this kind of animal sacrifice during a festival,” said Jain.

“Our traditions on Diwali have always believed in ahimsa (non-violence) and the welfare of animals. Owls are associated with Goddess Lakshmi, so people should consider their welfare instead of killing them and should protect this endangered species,” said Jain.

“In India, there are five varieties of owls: the Indian (Rock) eagle owl, Indian scops owl, brown fish owl, dusky eagle owl, and mottled wood owl. Generally, sorcerers (tantriks) use the horned owl or Indian eagle owl for sacrifice. It is anticipated that a large number of these animals may be sacrificed during Deepawali. They use their blood, feathers, and other body parts in occult practices,” he added.

He stated that sacrificing or keeping an owl in captivity is illegal under the Wild Life Protection Act of 1972, the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act of 1960, and is a violation of the rules under The Convention of International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), in cases involving exotic species.

“So it is an appeal not to trap these poor animals and not to sacrifice them in the name of Goddess Lakshmi. Report any offenses related to owls or any other animals to wildlife officials, police, or NGOs working for wildlife safety,” Jain concluded.