Tree saviour stands tall
In the pre-Independence era, Sengodan, the great-grandfather of my colleague Kayal Kanni, saved a majestic tamarind tree from doom in Kokkalai village, Salem (Tamil Nadu). The unique way this gentleman safeguarded the tree from the axe reads like a scene out of a thriller novel.
As Sengodan dozed off one afternoon, approaching footsteps shattered the tranquillity. Five Gounders (higher-caste Hindus), maybe six, arrived with men and axes to chop down the tree in a neighbourhood inhabited mainly by lower-caste Hindus. They ignored the tree’s long-term benefits, their only focus being road widening and getting timber.
The commotion jolted Sengodan, known for his gentle nature and profound love for trees. The giant tree, a living memory of his childhood and the joyous celebrations in his community, held a special place in his heart. The thought of losing his cherished ‘green friend’ caused him unbearable anguish. Fuelled by his deep reverence for nature and the environment, Sengodan exited his house to confront the men.
Sengodan told them to leave the tree alone. When the latter showed a deaf ear and didn’t heed him, an enraged Sengodan planned his next move. He brought out his wooden cot, secured it to the tree, and made himself comfortable. He also kept a razor-sharp sickle beside him, warning that anyone who attempted to bring down the tree would lose their head. The Gounders, surprised by his audacity, insisted that he depart, but Sengodan stood his ground. The unexpected act of defiance by a lower-caste Hindu astonished them. Through his actions, Sengodan exhibited a fearless and unwavering commitment to the cause of resistance.
An identical sight greeted the Gounders when they returned the next day — the cot tied to the tamarind tree and a determined Sengodan sitting on it. Despite their attempts to persuade him, their efforts were in vain. Inspired by their hero’s bravery, the other community members rallied around him. They formed a human shield around the tree to prevent anyone from cutting it down. The frustrated Gounders tried hard to win over the villagers. But the latter stood firm. Up against a united force, the Gounders abandoned their plans. Sengodan and his community members displayed solidarity, a testament to their strength and unity.
Following the incident, Sengodan’s reputation soared, earning him the status of a hero! Thanks to his valiant efforts, the tamarind tree still stands tall and robust. Only a tiny part of the hollow trunk, a scar from past battles, has come off. Today, bustling shops surround the tree, and people gather under its shade to socialise, play, or enjoy a refreshing drink. With its sprawling branches and vibrant foliage, the tree is a sanctuary for birds and squirrels. They find solace in its sturdy limbs or feast on the delicious fruits it bears. The tree has become a symbol of the community’s resilience and their commitment to preserving their environment.
Sengodan’s legacy lives on in Kokkalai. His glorious deed inspired his community members to brave the odds. The magnificent, century-old tamarind tree symbolises the community’s victory over adversity, a legacy they carry forward. It shows their strength, unity and dedication to safeguarding their environment for future generations. Sengodan’s actions have left an indelible mark, a beacon of hope for the future of environmental conservation.
— The writer is a retired bank manager
