Chennai, Oct 20 (NationPress) As Diwali illuminates Tamil Nadu with vibrant hues and sounds, the serene village of Perambur, situated near Kollidam in Tamil Nadu's Mayiladuthurai, stands out — enveloped in tranquility.

For over a century, the residents have adhered to a remarkable promise: no firecracker explosions, no waste incineration, and no boisterous celebrations.

Their motivation is both straightforward and significant — to safeguard the numerous bats residing in a vast banyan tree, located approximately a kilometre from the inhabited area.

This ancient banyan tree, which shelters hundreds of fruit bats, is integral to the village's character.

However, it has become the center of a gentle contention among locals.

While one faction aims to promote the “bat grove” as a potential eco-tourism spot that could create employment opportunities, others caution that heightened human involvement might disrupt the delicate ecosystem they have preserved for generations.

"We don’t wish to compromise the village’s essence," local farmer B. Karthi stated. "Even minimal smoke or noise can harm the bats."

Many villagers regard the bats as sacred creatures.

"I haven’t ignited a firecracker in 25 years," shared Brema Palani, 48, who relocated to the village from Salem post-marriage.

"It’s not a prohibition, but a tradition. We’ve learned to honour it."

Despite rising interest from birdwatchers and nature lovers, accessing the site remains challenging.

The only route involves traversing knee-deep muddy fields along a narrow, three-foot-wide trail.

Residents mentioned that a dirt road previously connected the grove to the village but was lost due to farmers extending their fields.

"We have been urging officials to restore the road," a farmer remarked.

Sirkazhi Forest Range Officer B. Ayub Khan indicated that officials are carefully evaluating options.

"Constructing a road directly to the tree will lead to noise pollution. A more suitable approach would be to build a road up to 500 metres from the site and create an observation area for visitors and researchers," he added.

However, no formal plan has yet been established.

Even as Deepavali celebrations resonate throughout Tamil Nadu, Perambur steadfastly maintains its century-old promise — prioritizing silence over spectacle and reverence over revelry to ensure its winged residents remain undisturbed.