Let's Gather at Atavika Station

Built into the side of the cliffs which border the western edge of the Anandapur Royal Forest is the public meeting hall known simply as Atavika Station #12. This simple structure serves a variety of purposes for the people of Anandapur, with all manner of activities scheduled here throughout the course of the year.

Just take a look at the current week's calendar posted inside. You'll see the station is set to host everything from lectures and a tourism conference to a birthday party, wedding and children's theater assembly.

There is no multiplex cinema in Anandapur, so Atavika Station #12 is also where the community gathers when a copy of the latest Bollywood film finally makes it to town. Posters promoting coming attractions are displayed on a bulletin board, and you may spot the film projector used for the screenings, suspended from the rafters in the main hall.

Of course, the projector serves double-duty, offering an option for presenting educational films as well. This week's topic seeks to raise awareness among the local population of the importance of conserving bats which inhabit the forest and cliffs.

Bat-shaped kites provide decoration and catch the interest of school children coming to view the presentations. The chalk board has also been prepared for a bat lecture, offering descriptions of the species of bats most commonly seen in the area, Rodrigues fruit bats and giant Malayan flying foxes. The notes point out the important role the bats play in the forest ecosystem, helping to pollinate plants and disperse the seeds of fruit trees.

There's also a plea to the hunters of Anandapur. Although hunting of exotic species, such as tigers, has been outlawed in the forest for many years, some still insist on picking off bats for sport. The local farmers seem to be on board with spreading the message that the bats are helpful and should be protected.