My connection with the peepal started at a very young age and it continues till today. I have vivid memories of my mother insisting that I pray to the Ganesha, who sat under this tree in a temple in our compound. Though I didn’t understand the reason then, I gradually started feeling a sense of security and peace, whenever I visited the Arasamara Pillayar.
The abhishekam water served dual purposes of cleaning the idol as well as watering the tree, a novel way of effective utilisation or recycling of resources. Little did I know then that the tree would play a significant role in an activity so close to my heart: The Nurture Nature Camp that we conduct for children during summers.
It is no coincidence that every year we start our camp under the shade of another peepal Tree: Pachai Nayagi at VOC Park planted by then President Dr APJ Abdul Kalam to commemorate Siruthuli’s tree planting drive, Pasumai Payanam.
This tree is home to crows, mynahs and bats hanging upside down in peaceful slumber. Our morning activities take place under Pachai Nayagi with the musical “Swara Raga Sudha” of the chirping birds in the background.
This peepal tree (Ficus Religiosa) is also known for its medicinal values, besides releasing lung-cleansing oxygen into the atmosphere. Under the peepal is also where Buddha is said to have got enlightenment.
Uma Krishnaraj is an Apex member of the environmental NGO, Siruthuli
