23-year-old Aman Sharma transformed his Delhi rooftop into a thriving urban forest with over 500 native plants, drawing the attention of a Los Angeles filmmaker and an upcoming documentary feature.
- Rooftop supports 500+ native plants and 200+ bird species
- Story shared widely on social media, inspiring many
- Filmmaker in Los Angeles invites Aman to feature in documentary
What happened
Aman Sharma, a young nature enthusiast in Delhi, cultivated a unique urban forest on the terrace of his home during the COVID-19 lockdown. Starting with a simple desire to bring birds closer, he planted native trees, flowering plants, and fruit-bearing species, supported by advice from his grandmother. Through persistence and learning from failures, he established an ecosystem sheltering over 200 bird species and 25 butterfly species on his rooftop.
His efforts attracted attention when The Better India featured his story on social media, reaching nearly a million nature lovers online. The unique initiative sparked widespread admiration and eventually led to a filmmaker in Los Angeles discovering his work. This connection has brought Aman an invitation to be part of an upcoming documentary, bridging his local project to a global audience.
Why it feels good
Aman's project shows how small, often overlooked urban spaces can become vital sanctuaries for wildlife, even in densely populated cities. This success story is a hopeful example of how individuals can help restore biodiversity, fostering a deeper connection with nature right at home.
It’s uplifting to see a young person turn a simple idea into a living ecosystem that supports hundreds of native species, proving that environmental stewardship doesn’t need vast land—just commitment and creativity. The international recognition also highlights the power of storytelling and social media to inspire positive change far beyond borders.
What to enjoy or watch next
Keep an eye out for the forthcoming documentary featuring Aman Sharma’s urban forest, which promises to shine a light on how urban areas can become havens for wildlife with thoughtful effort. This film will offer both inspiration and practical insight for anyone interested in urban ecology and conservation.
Meanwhile, Aman’s Birds of India platform, which shares beautiful wildlife stories and photographs from Delhi, is a fantastic resource to explore for those fascinated by birdwatching and urban biodiversity. Following his journey online invites us all to reimagine the potential for greenery and wildlife in our own cities.