Banyan Tree: The Tree of Lives.

One of the easiest trees to recognise is a banyan tree, with its’ roots hanging from the branches. It is also known for its symbolism in Hindu mythology to that of the ‘kalpavriksha’. If you’ve come across one, it is hard to miss with its sheer size and structure. However, the significance of this tree isn’t realised unless an environmental activist makes you walk on the earthy ground right to the middle of the dense tree. With invisible birds chirping around you and a millipede on your shoe, the first thought of a city girl is that of disgust. That is until one sees the vastness of the stand-alone tree. Under a single canopy, around a single bark a whole ecosystem thrives, oblivious to the world outside their haven.

Something that isn’t known is that this tree spreads out above and below the ground and helps maintain ground water. It slows down rainfall, prevents flooding and prevents soil erosion. They are also natural filters which result in pristine water going to larger waterbodies. A single tree can help the ecosystem bring about a massive change. We can’t do much, but if every individual would simply plant a tree, a whole ecosystem could burgeon and bloom.

Let us know in the comments below and spread the word. #SaveItTraditionally.