ദിവസം ഒരു ഫോട്ടോ 11

photo vonod pazhayannoor

Spearheading a Green Cause Today for a Better Tomorrow

But for a childhood pledge, he is taking a break from the rigours of routine work to spearhead the challenge of reclaiming the world's green cover. MK Harikumar renowned journo, poet and, critic launched his campaign at Garden City College on the eve of Gandhi Jayanti.hen MK Harikumar was in college in distant Kerala, he recalls a fascination for trees and regaling in nature's bounty. "I would turn to the leaves for my bookmarks and this gave me immense thrill," reminisces Harikumar. "Back home, everyone shared the same love for nature and this in many ways helped us bond as a family.I guess it also contributed to my passion for writing."

That Harikumar went on to pursue a degree in economics from DevaMatha College, Kuravilangad and finally passed out from Nirmala College, Muvattupuzha with MA degree in Economics is of less significance. It is his writings that have taken the centre stage and helped him move up the ladder -to be the bureau chief of a leading Malayalam daily, poet and writer - with eight. books to his eredit. But that Was then. Today, Harikumar is a worried man. A truth only betrayed by his modesty and gentle demeanor

. The onslaught on the environment not only in his own back yard (In God's own country), across other states like Karnataka and worldwide torment him a great deal.The journo turned environmentalist was in the city to kick- start a campaign of gigantic proportions besides seeking space to fulfill a unique venture- 'One Crore Trees Worldwide Campaign' spread across six continents. Now that is something that will take some doing. But even he could not have anticipated the kind of response he received in the city. Stepping out to a grand reception at Garden City College (GCE), his dream got off to the best possible starts. Dr. Joseph. V. G., chairman GCC Group of Institutions bequeathed the land to officially kick-start the campaign on campus. More than 1000 saplings were earmarked for the beginning on a cool breezy Sunday morning, the festive mood all too apparent.

Also, GCC announced its commitment to a greener planet by accepting to be a custodian of the 1000 trees as part of the deal besides supporting the crusade in planting the trees across the city. The significance of the announcement could not be missed coming on the eve of Mahatma Gandhi's 137th Birth Anniversary celebrations.According to Dr. Joseph, the concern for the environment spans our entire institutions. "We are proud of our legacy as 'environmental caretakers' and feel that it is our duty to protect it because of what it has given us," he said. "If we inspire students to plant a tree, they in turn will inspire many others. In this way, Harikumar's venture makes sense," he added. On his part, as a global crusader, Harikumar will promote environmental conservation by creating awareness amongst students on the importance of planting trees as well as taking good care of them. "This is a symbolic beginning," he said. "This campus has literally been transformed into a green paradise. The flora offers an ideal learning environment even in a city that is witnessing massive chopping of trees. Recalling that the campus was barren land more than a decade back, it has been transformed and awash with greenery.

This shows how in our small ways we can help the city reclaim its past grandeur,” he noted.Harikumar understand this will be a different beat all together. "It is not going to be just a pledge," he said addressing the gathering that comprised college students. "This is something I have always dreamed of as a child and am happy it is becoming a reality. The campaign is not just going to help protect the environment but should spur others to contribute their mite in safeguarding the environment," he informed the gathering giving a measure of the goals he has set out to achieve. To realise his goal, he is taking a break from his work and much of his writings will take a backseat. This phase of the agenda focuses on the planting of indigenous trees on public lands to enhance the impact of environmental conservation.Interestingly, Harikumar is not banking on government but a strong network of 'friends of the environment' that he has cultivated through the years in across various cultures, cities and countries. "A host of individuals and institutions have made a commitment to see this venture through.

What I am seeking is the space to plant the trees, nothing more," insists the poet. It is a challenge that could well bring him into the public Limelight- a Guinness world- record in the making. Or movement like the tree hugging Chipko movement. May be the inspiration of the Green Belt Movement that won Kenya's Wangari Mathai the Nobel award! But the reserved Harikumar is not looking for glory. Neither is looking for accolades. Just fulfilling a love of trees for their importance in our lives and doing his part!Speaking of the importance of such a measure, the soft- spoken environmental crusader shared his views on the global state of the environment. "We are today witnessing the wanton destruction of green cover and this is not good for the present and future generations," he warned the gathering. "We can rectify the mistakes that we have committed in the past by putting curbs on felling of trees and then make genuine attempts as a remedy through planting trees."His modus operandi is a simple one: With one crore trees to be planted across six continents as the target, to begin, he will first seek for land to plant the saplings. Once this is done, he will then acquire the saplings/ trees and elicit and a commitment from those involved be the custodians of the trees once they are planted. Places of worship, public spaces such as parks and educational establishments- schools, colleges etc will be the most sought after avenues.

The venture commenced at Garden City College and will spread across the states before taking-off worldwide. Initially, the focus is on indigenous trees to enhance the impact of environmental conservation. However, there is no preferred species although fast growing trees suited for public spaces will take prominence.According to Harikumar, the campaign is another addition to the efforts being made to conserve biodiversity, enhance natural beauty and prevent soil erosion. "I believe every country must sustain life naturally-forest cover affects the availability of rain, availability of underground water, soil fertility, clean air and the beauty of the landscape. At present, we are seeing a fast erosion of trees. I am looking at involving engaged in the campaign-promoting the planting of trees mainly in educational establishments, religious and public spaces to preserve local biological diversity."And rightly observed by one of the students at the function, it was heartening to listen to the inspiring talk and be part of the vision that could change the fortunes of a country. "It is a worthy venture and I cannot express my happiness and the fact that my college has been chosen for the task," she added.As if to welcome the initiative, it was only natural that the there were more cheers as the city witnessed a massive rain after brief lull that put a check on the soaring mercury levels. The rain gods too seemed to have smiled and given their nod.A core trees for the world.-

by julia steward

South african journalist

.Bangalore

ദിവസം ഒരു ഫോട്ടോ 10

മനുഷ്യ മാംസത്തിന്‌

മനുഷ്യന്‍ എന്ന മാംസം
വെറും കാഴ്ചവസ്തുവാണെന്ന്
ചിലപ്പോഴെങ്കിലും തോന്നിപ്പോകും.
മനുഷ്യ മാംസത്തിന്‌ ചരിത്രപരമായ
ഭംഗി നഷ്ടപ്പെടുകയാണ്‌ ചെയ്‌തത്‌.
മനുഷ്യന്‍ സുന്ദരനാണോ?
ആകാന്‍ വഴിയില്ല.
ഒരു താഴ്വരയുടെയോ,
ചില പക്ഷികളുടെയോ ഭംഗി അവനില്ല.
അവന്‍ തണ്റ്റെ സ്വാര്‍ത്ഥതയുടെ
ആ പല്ലുകള്‍കാണിക്കുമ്പോഴെങ്കിലും
വികൃതജീവിയാണ്‌.
സമീപകാലത്തെങ്ങും
അവന്‌ ഒരു ഭംഗി കിട്ടാനുള്ള
സാധ്യത കാണുന്നില്ല.

അതു കണ്ടില്ല.

ആത്മീയത തേടി

ഒരോവഴിയിലും പോയി.

ദേവാലയങ്ങളില്‍ പോയി.

സുഹ്രുത്തുകളെ തേടി.

പുസ്തകങ്ങള്‍ വായിച്ചു.

എല്ലാംകണ്ടു.

വാദിച്ചു,ജയിച്ചു.

എന്നാല്‍ ഒരിടത്തും അതു കണ്ടില്ല.

അവസാനം ഞാന്‍ എന്നിലേക്ക്‌ തന്നെ മടങ്ങി.

അവിടെ അത്‌ സുരക്ഷിതമായിരുപ്പുണ്ടായിരുന്നു.

ഒരു ശല്യവും ഏല്‍ക്കാതെ.

Spearheading a Green Cause Today for a Better Tomorrow
But for a childhood pledge, he is taking a break from the rigours of routine work to spearhead the challenge of reclaiming the world's green cover. MK Harikumar renowned journo, poet and, critic launched his campaign at Garden City College on the eve of Gandhi Jayanti.hen MK Harikumar was in college in distant Kerala, he recalls a fascination for trees and regaling in nature's bounty. "I would turn to the leaves for my bookmarks and this gave me immense thrill," reminisces Harikumar. "Back home, everyone shared the same love for nature and this in many ways helped us bond as a family.

I guess it also contributed to my passion for writing." That Harikumar went on to pursue a degree in economics from DevaMatha College, Kuravilangad and finally passed out from Nirmala College, Muvattupuzha with MA degree in Economics is of less significance. It is his writings that have taken the centre stage and helped him move up the ladder -to be the bureau chief of a leading Malayalam daily, poet and writer - with eight. books to his eredit. But that Was then. Today, Harikumar is a worried man. A truth only betrayed by his modesty and gentle demeanor.

The onslaught on the environment not only in his own back yard (In God's own country), across other states like Karnataka and worldwide torment him a great deal.The journo turned environmentalist was in the city to kick- start a campaign of gigantic proportions besides seeking space to fulfill a unique venture- 'One Crore Trees Worldwide Campaign' spread across six continents. Now that is something that will take some doing. But even he could not have anticipated the kind of response he received in the city.

Stepping out to a grand reception at Garden City College (GCE), his dream got off to the best possible starts. Dr. Joseph. V. G., chairman GCC Group of Institutions bequeathed the land to officially kick-start the campaign on campus. More than 1000 saplings were earmarked for the beginning on a cool breezy Sunday morning, the festive mood all too apparent. Also, GCC announced its commitment to a greener planet by accepting to be a custodian of the 1000 trees as part of the deal besides supporting the crusade in planting the trees across the city. The significance of the announcement could not be missed coming on the eve of Mahatma Gandhi's 137th Birth Anniversary celebrations.

According to Dr. Joseph, the concern for the environment spans our entire institutions. "We are proud of our legacy as 'environmental caretakers' and feel that it is our duty to protect it because of what it has given us," he said. "If we inspire students to plant a tree, they in turn will inspire many others. In this way, Harikumar's venture makes sense," he added. On his part, as a global crusader, Harikumar will promote environmental conservation by creating awareness amongst students on the importance of planting trees as well as taking good care of them. "This is a symbolic beginning," he said. "This campus has literally been transformed into a green paradise. The flora offers an ideal learning environment even in a city that is witnessing massive chopping of trees. Recalling that the campus was barren land more than a decade back, it has been transformed and awash with greenery.

This shows how in our small ways we can help the city reclaim its past grandeur,” he noted.Harikumar understand this will be a different beat all together. "It is not going to be just a pledge," he said addressing the gathering that comprised college students. "This is something I have always dreamed of as a child and am happy it is becoming a reality. The campaign is not just going to help protect the environment but should spur others to contribute their mite in safeguarding the environment," he informed the gathering giving a measure of the goals he has set out to achieve. To realise his goal, he is taking a break from his work and much of his writings will take a backseat. This phase of the agenda focuses on the planting of indigenous trees on public lands to enhance the impact of environmental conservation.Interestingly, Harikumar is not banking on government but a strong network of 'friends of the environment' that he has cultivated through the years in across various cultures, cities and countries.
"A host of individuals and institutions have made a commitment to see this venture through. What I am seeking is the space to plant the trees, nothing more," insists the poet. It is a challenge that could well bring him into the public Limelight- a Guinness world- record in the making. Or movement like the tree hugging Chipko movement.

May be the inspiration of the Green Belt Movement that won Kenya's Wangari Mathai the Nobel award! But the reserved Harikumar is not looking for glory. Neither is looking for accolades. Just fulfilling a love of trees for their importance in our lives and doing his part!Speaking of the importance of such a measure, the soft- spoken environmental crusader shared his views on the global state of the environment. "We are today witnessing the wanton destruction of green cover and this is not good for the present and future generations," he warned the gathering.
"We can rectify the mistakes that we have committed in the past by putting curbs on felling of trees and then make genuine attempts as a remedy through planting trees."His modus operandi is a simple one: With one crore trees to be planted across six continents as the target, to begin, he will first seek for land to plant the saplings. Once this is done, he will then acquire the saplings/ trees and elicit and a commitment from those involved be the custodians of the trees once they are planted. Places of worship, public spaces such as parks and educational establishments- schools, colleges etc will be the most sought after avenues. The venture commenced at Garden City College and will spread across the states before taking-off worldwide. Initially, the focus is on indigenous trees to enhance the impact of environmental conservation. However, there is no preferred species although fast growing trees suited for public spaces will take prominence.According to Harikumar, the campaign is another addition to the efforts being made to conserve biodiversity, enhance natural beauty and prevent soil erosion. "I believe every country must sustain life naturally-forest cover affects the availability of rain, availability of underground water, soil fertility, clean air and the beauty of the landscape. At present, we are seeing a fast erosion of trees.
I am looking at involving engaged in the campaign-promoting the planting of trees mainly in educational establishments, religious and public spaces to preserve local biological diversity."And rightly observed by one of the students at the function, it was heartening to listen to the inspiring talk and be part of the vision that could change the fortunes of a country.

"It is a worthy venture and I cannot express my happiness and the fact that my college has been chosen for the task," she added.As if to welcome the initiative, it was only natural that the there were more cheers as the city witnessed a massive rain after brief lull that put a check on the soaring mercury levels. The rain gods too seemed to have smiled and given their nod.A core trees for the world.

by julia steward

south african journalist

bangalore

ദിവസം ഒരു ഫോട്ടോ 9

photo vinod pazhayannoor

എത്തിച്ചേരാനുള്ള

ആത്മീയത ഒരു തുറസ്സായ
വഴിയല്ല.
അതൊരു അനുഭവമാണ്‌.
അത്‌ പുസ്തകങ്ങളിലോ , മതങ്ങളിലോ അല്ല ഉള്ളത്‌.
ഒരു വിചാരത്തിലൂടെ അവനവനിലേക്ക്‌
എത്തിച്ചേരാനുള്ള പ്രചോദനമാണത്‌.
എല്ലായിടത്തുമതുണ്ട്‌.
മനുഷ്യനില്‍ അത്‌ എപ്പോഴും ഇല്ല.

Spearheading a Green Cause Today for a Better Tomorrow

But for a childhood pledge, he is taking a break from the rigours of routine work to spearhead the challenge of reclaiming the world's green cover. MK Harikumar renowned journo, poet and, critic launched his campaign at Garden City College on the eve of Gandhi Jayanti.hen MK Harikumar was in college in distant Kerala, he recalls a fascination for trees and regaling in nature's bounty. "I would turn to the leaves for my bookmarks and this gave me immense thrill," reminisces Harikumar. "Back home, everyone shared the same love for nature and this in many ways helped us bond as a family.

I guess it also contributed to my passion for writing." That Harikumar went on to pursue a degree in economics from DevaMatha College, Kuravilangad and finally passed out from Nirmala College, Muvattupuzha with MA degree in Economics is of less significance. It is his writings that have taken the centre stage and helped him move up the ladder -to be the bureau chief of a leading Malayalam daily, poet and writer - with eight. books to his eredit. But that Was then. Today, Harikumar is a worried man. A truth only betrayed by his modesty and gentle demeanor.

The onslaught on the environment not only in his own back yard (In God's own country), across other states like Karnataka and worldwide torment him a great deal.The journo turned environmentalist was in the city to kick- start a campaign of gigantic proportions besides seeking space to fulfill a unique venture- 'One Crore Trees Worldwide Campaign' spread across six continents. Now that is something that will take some doing. But even he could not have anticipated the kind of response he received in the city.

Stepping out to a grand reception at Garden City College (GCE), his dream got off to the best possible starts. Dr. Joseph. V. G., chairman GCC Group of Institutions bequeathed the land to officially kick-start the campaign on campus. More than 1000 saplings were earmarked for the beginning on a cool breezy Sunday morning, the festive mood all too apparent. Also, GCC announced its commitment to a greener planet by accepting to be a custodian of the 1000 trees as part of the deal besides supporting the crusade in planting the trees across the city. The significance of the announcement could not be missed coming on the eve of Mahatma Gandhi's 137th Birth Anniversary celebrations.

According to Dr. Joseph, the concern for the environment spans our entire institutions. "We are proud of our legacy as 'environmental caretakers' and feel that it is our duty to protect it because of what it has given us," he said. "If we inspire students to plant a tree, they in turn will inspire many others. In this way, Harikumar's venture makes sense," he added. On his part, as a global crusader, Harikumar will promote environmental conservation by creating awareness amongst students on the importance of planting trees as well as taking good care of them. "This is a symbolic beginning," he said. "This campus has literally been transformed into a green paradise. The flora offers an ideal learning environment even in a city that is witnessing massive chopping of trees. Recalling that the campus was barren land more than a decade back, it has been transformed and awash with greenery.

This shows how in our small ways we can help the city reclaim its past grandeur,” he noted.Harikumar understand this will be a different beat all together. "It is not going to be just a pledge," he said addressing the gathering that comprised college students. "This is something I have always dreamed of as a child and am happy it is becoming a reality. The campaign is not just going to help protect the environment but should spur others to contribute their mite in safeguarding the environment," he informed the gathering giving a measure of the goals he has set out to achieve. To realise his goal, he is taking a break from his work and much of his writings will take a backseat. This phase of the agenda focuses on the planting of indigenous trees on public lands to enhance the impact of environmental conservation.Interestingly, Harikumar is not banking on government but a strong network of 'friends of the environment' that he has cultivated through the years in across various cultures, cities and countries.

"A host of individuals and institutions have made a commitment to see this venture through. What I am seeking is the space to plant the trees, nothing more," insists the poet. It is a challenge that could well bring him into the public Limelight- a Guinness world- record in the making. Or movement like the tree hugging Chipko movement. May be the inspiration of the Green Belt Movement that won Kenya's Wangari Mathai the Nobel award! But the reserved Harikumar is not looking for glory. Neither is looking for accolades. Just fulfilling a love of trees for their importance in our lives and doing his part!Speaking of the importance of such a measure, the soft- spoken environmental crusader shared his views on the global state of the environment. "We are today witnessing the wanton destruction of green cover and this is not good for the present and future generations," he warned the gathering.

"We can rectify the mistakes that we have committed in the past by putting curbs on felling of trees and then make genuine attempts as a remedy through planting trees."His modus operandi is a simple one: With one crore trees to be planted across six continents as the target, to begin, he will first seek for land to plant the saplings. Once this is done, he will then acquire the saplings/ trees and elicit and a commitment from those involved be the custodians of the trees once they are planted. Places of worship, public spaces such as parks and educational establishments- schools, colleges etc will be the most sought after avenues. The venture commenced at Garden City College and will spread across the states before taking-off worldwide. Initially, the focus is on indigenous trees to enhance the impact of environmental conservation. However, there is no preferred species although fast growing trees suited for public spaces will take prominence.According to Harikumar, the campaign is another addition to the efforts being made to conserve biodiversity, enhance natural beauty and prevent soil erosion. "I believe every country must sustain life naturally-forest cover affects the availability of rain, availability of underground water, soil fertility, clean air and the beauty of the landscape. At present, we are seeing a fast erosion of trees.

I am looking at involving engaged in the campaign-promoting the planting of trees mainly in educational establishments, religious and public spaces to preserve local biological diversity."And rightly observed by one of the students at the function, it was heartening to listen to the inspiring talk and be part of the vision that could change the fortunes of a country. "It is a worthy venture and I cannot express my happiness and the fact that my college has been chosen for the task," she added.As if to welcome the initiative, it was only natural that the there were more cheers as the city witnessed a massive rain after brief lull that put a check on the soaring mercury levels. The rain gods too seemed to have smiled and given their nod.A core trees for the world.

ഒഴുകുകയാണ്‌

ജലം ഒഴുകുകയാണ്‌
ഒഴുകുമ്പോള്‍ ഒന്നുമില്ല.
ആരു പറഞ്ഞാലും ജലം
ഒരു നരവംശ ശാസ്ത്രവല്‍ക്കരണത്തിന്‌
വഴങ്ങാതെ ഒഴുകുകയാണ്‌.
ജലം ജലത്തിന്‌ വേണ്ടി ഒഴുകുന്നു.




Spearheading a Green Cause Today for a Better Tomorrow

But for a childhood pledge, he is taking a break from the rigours of routine work to spearhead the challenge of reclaiming the world's green cover. MK Harikumar renowned journo, poet and, critic launched his campaign at Garden City College on the eve of Gandhi Jayanti.
hen MK Harikumar was in college in distant Kerala, he recalls a fascination for trees and regaling in nature's bounty. "I would turn to the leaves for my bookmarks and this gave me immense thrill," reminisces Harikumar. "Back home, everyone shared the same love for nature and this in many ways helped us bond as a family.

I guess it also contributed to my passion for writing." That Harikumar went on to pursue a degree in economics from DevaMatha College, Kuravilangad and finally passed out from Nirmala College, Muvattupuzha with MA degree in Economics is of less significance. It is his writings that have taken the centre stage and helped him move up the ladder -to be the bureau chief of a leading Malayalam daily, poet and writer - with eight. books to his eredit. But that Was then. Today, Harikumar is a worried man. A truth only betrayed by his modesty and gentle demeanor. The onslaught on the environment not only in his own back yard (In God's own country), across other states like Karnataka and worldwide torment him a great deal.

The journo turned environmentalist was in the city to kick- start a campaign of gigantic proportions besides seeking space to fulfill a unique venture- 'One Crore Trees Worldwide Campaign' spread across six continents. Now that is something that will take some doing. But even he could not have anticipated the kind of response he received in the city. Stepping out to a grand reception at Garden City College (GCE), his dream got off to the best possible starts. Dr. Joseph. V. G., chairman GCC Group of Institutions bequeathed the land to officially kick-start the campaign on campus. More than 1000 saplings were earmarked for the beginning on a cool breezy Sunday morning, the festive mood all too apparent. Also, GCC announced its commitment to a greener planet by accepting to be a custodian of the 1000 trees as part of the deal besides supporting the crusade in planting the trees across the city. The significance of the announcement could not be missed coming on the eve of Mahatma Gandhi's 137th Birth Anniversary celebrations.

According to Dr. Joseph, the concern for the environment spans our entire institutions. "We are proud of our legacy as 'environmental caretakers' and feel that it is our duty to protect it because of what it has given us," he said. "If we inspire students to plant a tree, they in turn will inspire many others. In this way, Harikumar's venture makes sense," he added. On his part, as a global crusader, Harikumar will promote environmental conservation by creating awareness amongst students on the importance of planting trees as well as taking good care of them. "This is a symbolic beginning," he said. "This campus has literally been transformed into a green paradise. The flora offers an ideal learning environment even in a city that is witnessing massive chopping of trees. Recalling that the campus was barren land more than a decade back, it has been transformed and awash with greenery. This shows how in our small ways we can help the city reclaim its past grandeur,” he noted.

Harikumar understand this will be a different beat all together. "It is not going to be just a pledge," he said addressing the gathering that comprised college students. "This is something I have always dreamed of as a child and am happy it is becoming a reality. The campaign is not just going to help protect the environment but should spur others to contribute their mite in safeguarding the environment," he informed the gathering giving a measure of the goals he has set out to achieve. To realise his goal, he is taking a break from his work and much of his writings will take a backseat. This phase of the agenda focuses on the planting of indigenous trees on public lands to enhance the impact of environmental conservation.

Interestingly, Harikumar is not banking on government but a strong network of 'friends of the environment' that he has cultivated through the years in across various cultures, cities and countries. "A host of individuals and institutions have made a commitment to see this venture through. What I am seeking is the space to plant the trees, nothing more," insists the poet. It is a challenge that could well bring him into the public Limelight- a Guinness world- record in the making. Or movement like the tree hugging Chipko movement. May be the inspiration of the Green Belt Movement that won Kenya's Wangari Mathai the Nobel award! But the reserved Harikumar is not looking for glory. Neither is looking for accolades. Just fulfilling a love of trees for their importance in our lives and doing his part!

Speaking of the importance of such a measure, the soft- spoken environmental crusader shared his views on the global state of the environment. "We are today witnessing the wanton destruction of green cover and this is not good for the present and future generations," he warned the gathering. "We can rectify the mistakes that we have committed in the past by putting curbs on felling of trees and then make genuine attempts as a remedy through planting trees."

His modus operandi is a simple one: With one crore trees to be planted across six continents as the target, to begin, he will first seek for land to plant the saplings. Once this is done, he will then acquire the saplings/ trees and elicit and a commitment from those involved be the custodians of the trees once they are planted. Places of worship, public spaces such as parks and educational establishments- schools, colleges etc will be the most sought after avenues. The venture commenced at Garden City College and will spread across the states before taking-off worldwide. Initially, the focus is on indigenous trees to enhance the impact of environmental conservation. However, there is no preferred species although fast growing trees suited for public spaces will take prominence.

According to Harikumar, the campaign is another addition to the efforts being made to conserve biodiversity, enhance natural beauty and prevent soil erosion. "I believe every country must sustain life naturally-forest cover affects the availability of rain, availability of underground water, soil fertility, clean air and the beauty of the landscape. At present, we are seeing a fast erosion of trees. I am looking at involving engaged in the campaign-promoting the planting of trees mainly in educational establishments, religious and public spaces to preserve local biological diversity."

And rightly observed by one of the students at the function, it was heartening to listen to the inspiring talk and be part of the vision that could change the fortunes of a country. "It is a worthy venture and I cannot express my happiness and the fact that my college has been chosen for the task," she added.

As if to welcome the initiative, it was only natural that the there were more cheers as the city witnessed a massive rain after brief lull that put a check on the soaring mercury levels. The rain gods too seemed to have smiled and given their nod.
A core trees for the world.



-by julia steward
South african journalist.
Bangalore

നാഭിയിലെ

ഒരു വര നിമിഷ
നേരം കൊണ്ട്
‌ഒരു പൂച്ചയായി.
വാസ്തവത്തില്‍
പൂച്ച ഇതൊന്നും
അറിയുന്നുണ്ടായിരുന്നില്ല.
മറ്റൊരു വര നേരെ
ഒരു പെണ്ണിണ്റ്റെ നാഭിയിലെ
ചില പൂവിതള്‍ സ്പര്‍ശങ്ങള്‍
ആവാഹിച്ചു.
വരകള്‍ കണ്ണുകളെയും ശരീരത്തിണ്റ്റെ
ഡിസൈനുകളെയും ആവര്‍ത്തിച്ചു.
പിന്നെയും വരകള്‍ അടങ്ങുന്നില്ല.
അവ പുച്ചയെയും പെണ്ണിനെയും
ചേര്‍ത്തുവച്ച്‌ ചില രതിച്ചിത്രങ്ങളായി മാറി.
എന്നാല്‍പൂച്ചയോ പെണ്ണോ
ഇതൊന്നു അറിയാതെ കളിച്ചു രസിച്ചു

MYSELF

I am not language;
only the first alphabets of a
primitive script;
In their bid to split me into
alphabets and words
the schools stacked my head,
mind and body with multiple
phrases converting me
into a mannequin.
But I turned into a lone
suicide squad separating
myself from languages;
I moved on with sharpened passions
among the doomed establishments;
still I didn’t become a materialist

2
I am a sentence with words missing,
always yearning for meanings
When dissolved in letters, an voice
reminds me about my real self
However in my fright
I could not but destroy
meanings

3
When butterflies flew around
I too joined them as flying verses
The butterflies which were also
equally scared of meanings
were in a frantic plight
for a way out
and I too became a butterfly

4
There is now darkness of the night
The anonymous voice of the darkness
The orgasmic delights of darkness
The primitive legacy of darkness
The whispers of the dead in darkness
The varied tunes of those who never
settle down in a single body;
The nutmeg trees in the courtyard
recited some prayer
The flooding verses of moonshine
reverberating in the unknown
transparency of primitive hymns
The flower trees slept without
chanting Upanishads
I went nude in my soul
like a virgin glowing in
a hundred modes of love

5
I am a spiritual fasting not
bothered to encroach poetry
and spell its doom
The body never preserves anything;
even the mind has no such habits
I am rummaging my memory
in search of a lady bird
which never arrows down
the soul of words
I painted the chola murals in their
forehead;
I carved the insignia of the swords
on the chests of the chera soldiers
I broke mud pots of Harappa and mohan jo Daro
on their belly

6
I am grief engraved in a primitive script
My religion is that of a maggot
My love is that of the birds disturbed
By the by the chant of leaves
My legacy is not that of artists

7
I am snow flames of love
as well as love of snow flames
The primitive
plateaus of her forehead
are the skyscape of her mind
The sterile winter of the college
The antique eyes, navel pits
The scent of plantain leaves
The bhagavat geetha
glistening in the closed
eyes of my mate
the acumen of the wind
The Buddhist statue emerging
from Marxism
The face of Budha and
the voyage of the bereaved
glisten in
moonlit night
The explicit human vastness
of kathakali in eye lines
the hunter’s aim
from the horizontal
mark on the forehead
Wars that were never fought
in the annoyed nipples
yearning to turn
and not to turn in to a human soul
in the soil saturated in décor
And this is my love

7
I am the fire that set out from
Yagasaala
The fire that pierce deep into
Yearning hearts
bodies in love
and the soul of
the depressed

8
I am in deep meditation
to acquire wisdom from wind
love from light
and humanity from soil
My static meditation extends
through years
The islands of thoughts
which I preserve amidst the
convulsions for humanity
and stomach
for me meditation is an endless
ritual

കാറ്റു പോലും

എല്ലാ കാമവും അടങ്ങി
തീരം കിടന്നു.
ഒരു കാറ്റു പോലും വന്നില്ല.
ഒന്ന് ഉണര്‍ത്താന്‍ .
തീരംവല്ലാതെ ബോറടിച്ചു
ഒന്നുകില്‍ കൂടെ
കിടക്കാന്‍ കടല്‍ വേണം.
അല്ലെങ്കില്‍ കടലില്‍ചാടി മരിക്കണം.

ഒന്നും

പകല്‍ സകല
ആര്‍ത്തികളും പുറത്തെടുത്ത്
എല്ലാംതിന്നു മുടിച്ചു.
രാത്രിക്ക് ഒന്നും നല്‍കിയില്ല.
പകലിന്‌ എത്ര കിട്ടിയാലും
പോരാ.
രാത്രി ദാഹംകൊണ്ട്
പൊരിഞ്ഞു.
എന്നീട്ടും പകലൊരു തുള്ളീ പോലും
കളയാതെ എല്ലാമകത്താക്കി.
പകലിന്‌ വീണ്ടും ദാരിദ്ര്യം.
കടിച്ച് കീറാന്‍,കുടിച്ച് മുടിക്കാന്

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Famous Malayalam literary critic, poet and journalist M K Harikumar was in Dubai to spread the idea of his mission 'Ten million trees across the world.'

He planted a few saplings near the Media City in coordination with the Public Parks and Horticulture Department of Dubai Municipality.Dubai Municipality officials present at the simple ceremony said the civic body will give further boost to Harikumar’s idea of ten million saplings. Ahmed AbdulKarim, Director of Public Parks and Horticulture Department said the Municipality, which is in the process of turning 8% of the city area green as per the international norms, would like support any movement towards creating more green areas.'We believe that Harikumar’s idea of ten million saplings will help create awareness among the local residents towards the necessity of planting more and more trees for the generations to come,' he said.

Harikumar said he has taken a plunge to this campaign for a childhood pledge, taking a break from the rigours of routine work to spearhead the challenge of reclaiming the world’s green cover.'This is my first tree planting outside India where I have completed planting 5,000 trees in different states with the help of social organizations and NGOs,' he said.When Harikumar was in college in Kerala, he recalls a fascination for trees and regaling in nature’s bounty. 'I would turn to the leaves for my bookmarks and this gave me immense thrill. Back home everyone shared the same love for nature and this in many ways helped us bond as a family. I guess it also contributed to my passion for writing,' he said.A post graduate in Economics from Nirmala College Muvattupuzha, Kerala, Harikumar said it is his writings that have taken the centre stage and helped him move up the ladder to be the bureau chief of a leading Malayalam Daily, poet and writer with eight books to his credit. But today he is a worried man. The onslaught on the environment not only in his own state Kerala, the 'God’s own country' but across other states like Karnataka and worldwide torment him a great deal.The journo turned environmentalist was in the city to kick-start a campaign of gigantic proportions spread across six continents besides seeking space to fulfill a unique venture.

Harikumar said his dream got off to the best possible start outside India.'On my part as a global crusader, I will promote environmental conservation by creating awareness amongst students on the importance of planting trees as well as taking good care of them. This is a symbolic beginning,' he said.Harikumar understands this will be a different beat all together. 'It is not going to be just a pledge. This is something I have always dreamed of as a child and am happy it is becoming a reality. The campaign is not just going to help, protect the environment but should spur others to contribute their might in safeguarding the environment,' he said.Harikumar said to realize his goal, he is taking a break from his work and much of his writings will take a backseat.

'This phase of the agenda focuses on the planting of indigenous trees on public lands to enhance the impact of environmental conservation,' he said.Interestingly, Harikumar is not banking on Government but a strong network of friends of the environment. 'I will cultivate through the years in across various cultures, cities and countries. A host of individuals and institutions have made a commitment to see this venture through. What I am seeking is the space to plant the trees, nothing more,' he said.Speaking on the importance of such a measure, the soft-spoken environmental crusader shared his views on the global state of the environment. 'We are today witnessing a wanton destruction of green cover and this is not good for the present and future generations. We can rectify the mistakes that we have committed in the past by putting curbs on felling of trees and then make genuine attempts as a remedy through planting trees,' said Harikumar.

His modus operandi is simple. With ten million trees to be planted across six continents as the target, to begin he will first seek for land to plant the saplings. Once this is done, he will then acquire the saplings/trees and elicit a commitment from those involved to be the custodians of the trees once they are planted.Places of worship, public spaces such as parks and educational establishments, schools, colleges etc. will be the most sought after avenues.The venture commenced in Dubai will spread across the GCC states before taking-off worldwide. Initially, the focus is on indigenous trees to enhance the impact of environmental conservation. However there is no preferred species although fast growing trees suited for public spaces will take prominence.According to Harikumar the campaign is another addition to the efforts being made to conserve bio-diversity, enhance natural beauty and prevent soil erosion.

'I believe every country must sustain life naturally - forest cover affects the availability of the rain, availability of underground water, soil fertility, clean air and the beauty of the landscape,' he said.

ദിവസം ഒരു ഫോട്ടോ 8

photo mk

ദിവസം ഒരു ഫോട്ടോ 7

photomk

Myself

1

I am not language;

only the first alphabets of a

primitive script;

In their bid to split me into

alphabets and words

the schools stacked my head,

mind and body with multiple

phrases converting me

into a mannequin.

But I turned into a lone

suicide squad separating

myself from languages;

I moved on with sharpened passions

among the doomed establishments;

still I didn’t become a materialist

2

I am a sentence with words missing,

always yearning for meanings

When dissolved in letters, an voice

reminds me about my real self

However in my fright

I could not but destroy

meanings

3

When butterflies flew around

I too joined them as flying verses

The butterflies which were also

equally scared of meanings

were in a frantic plight

for a way out

and I too became a butterfly

4

There is now darkness of the night

The anonymous voice of the darkness

The orgasmic delights of darkness

The primitive legacy of darkness

The whispers of the dead in darkness

The varied tunes of those who never

settle down in a single body;

The nutmeg trees in the courtyard

recited some prayer

The flooding verses of moonshine

reverberating in the unknown

transparency of primitive hymns

The flower trees slept without

chanting Upanishads

I went nude in my soul

like a virgin glowing in

a hundred modes of love

5

I am a spiritual fasting not

bothered to encroach poetry

and spell its doom

The body never preserves anything;

even the mind has no such habits

I am rummaging my memory

in search of a lady bird

which never arrows down

the soul of words

I painted the chola murals in their

forehead;

I carved the insignia of the swords

on the chests of the chera soldiers

I broke mud pots of Harappa and mohan jo Daro

on their belly

6

I am grief engraved in a primitive script

My religion is that of a maggot

My love is that of the birds disturbed

By the by the chant of leaves

My legacy is not that of artists

7

I am snow flames of love

as well as love of snow flames

The primitive

plateaus of her forehead

are the skyscape of her mind

The sterile winter of the college

The antique eyes, navel pits

The scent of plantain leaves

The bhagavat geetha

glistening in the closed

eyes of my mate

the acumen of the wind

The Buddhist statue emerging

from Marxism

The face of Budha and

the voyage of the bereaved

glisten in

moonlit night

The explicit human vastness

of kathakali in eye lines

the hunter’s aim

from the horizontal

mark on the forehead

Wars that were never fought

in the annoyed nipples

yearning to turn

and not to turn in to a human soul

in the soil saturated in décor

And this is my love

7

I am the fire that set out from

Yagasaala

The fire that pierce deep into

Yearning hearts

bodies in love

and the soul of

the depressed

8

I am in deep meditation

to acquire wisdom from wind

love from light

and humanity from soil

My static meditation extends

through years

The islands of thoughts

which I preserve amidst the

convulsions for humanity

and stomach

for me meditation is an endless

ritual

ദിവസം ഒരു ഫോട്ടോ 6

photo mk

Myself

1

I am not language;

only the first alphabets of a

primitive script;

In their bid to split me into

alphabets and words

the schools stacked my head,

mind and body with multiple

phrases converting me

into a mannequin.

But I turned into a lone

suicide squad separating

myself from languages;

I moved on with sharpened passions

among the doomed establishments;

still I didn’t become a materialist

2

I am a sentence with words missing,

always yearning for meanings

When dissolved in letters, an voice

reminds me about my real self

However in my fright

I could not but destroy

meanings

3

When butterflies flew around

I too joined them as flying verses

The butterflies which were also

equally scared of meanings

were in a frantic plight

for a way out

and I too became a butterfly

4

There is now darkness of the night

The anonymous voice of the darkness

The orgasmic delights of darkness

The primitive legacy of darkness

The whispers of the dead in darkness

The varied tunes of those who never

settle down in a single body;

The nutmeg trees in the courtyard

recited some prayer

The flooding verses of moonshine

reverberating in the unknown

transparency of primitive hymns

The flower trees slept without

chanting Upanishads

I went nude in my soul

like a virgin glowing in

a hundred modes of love

5

I am a spiritual fasting not

bothered to encroach poetry

and spell its doom

The body never preserves anything;

even the mind has no such habits

I am rummaging my memory

in search of a lady bird

which never arrows down

the soul of words

I painted the chola murals in their

forehead;

I carved the insignia of the swords

on the chests of the chera soldiers

I broke mud pots of Harappa and mohan jo Daro

on their belly

6

I am grief engraved in a primitive script

My religion is that of a maggot

My love is that of the birds disturbed

By the by the chant of leaves

My legacy is not that of artists

7

I am snow flames of love

as well as love of snow flames

The primitive

plateaus of her forehead

are the skyscape of her mind

The sterile winter of the college

The antique eyes, navel pits

The scent of plantain leaves

The bhagavat geetha

glistening in the closed

eyes of my mate

the acumen of the wind

The Buddhist statue emerging

from Marxism

The face of Budha and

the voyage of the bereaved

glisten in

moonlit night

The explicit human vastness

of kathakali in eye lines

the hunter’s aim

from the horizontal

mark on the forehead

Wars that were never fought

in the annoyed nipples

yearning to turn

and not to turn in to a human soul

in the soil saturated in décor

And this is my love

7

I am the fire that set out from

Yagasaala

The fire that pierce deep into

Yearning hearts

bodies in love

and the soul of

the depressed

8

I am in deep meditation

to acquire wisdom from wind

love from light

and humanity from soil

My static meditation extends

through years

The islands of thoughts

which I preserve amidst the

convulsions for humanity

and stomach

for me meditation is an endless

ritual

ദിവസം ഒരു ഫോട്ടോ 5

photomk

ദിവസം ഒരു ഫോട്ടോ 4

photo :vinod pazhayannoor

ദിവസം ഒരു ഫോട്ടോ 3

photo mk
trees in ootty garden

Title of this poem is not “Ants”

Though titled ‘Ants’, this poetic peice

doesn’t have either a life of its own

nor any halo around it

Sans any vain imageries of either

separation or grief

ants are breaking all poetic rules

This poem is an escape from history

without any nostalgia,

neither sublimity

nor the flow of Papanasini

Unable to withstand the sense and

senselessness

the ants are creeping

among these verses;

Without the least faith in lyricism

the ants are searching for poetic impulses

outside the walls of lyrics

The symbols in this poem are nothing but

pieces of life oft used and discarded

by contemporaries

The smell of silence is akin to that of the

frozen bodies in a government hospital

There was sensuous mourns of prostitution

inside a taxi car

There was the lament of the dropouts pasted on the

walls of the police station

Ultra modern lusty obesity of the female mass was in wait

In the condensed darkness of the

transport bus stand

The solitude of the corroded

bodies of a dog lie in the rail track

The discarded plastic cups spread scattered

in the rail tracks

The absurdity of the dumb adolescence

was throbbing inside the lingerie of mary,

a street hooker

The condom crazy feminists

The archaic quivers of the epileptic

being rushed to the hospital in a local bus

Shadows of literary criticism reflecting in the entrails

of the tomoto got smashed onthe road

before reaching the

vegetable stand

The ants needed only the symbols and not

any reviews or explanations

Refusing to become symbols the ants

bid audio to poem, scattered all over

losing their way

Even this poem has nothing to

do with explaining symbols, emblems or wisdom

M K Harikumar plants a sapling near Media City.

sponsored link What is a sponsored TextLink?

related stories Dubai Municipality RSS feed DM to equip higher and middle management with innovation tools GEYC 2006 concludes with a call to share solutions across borders Dubai Central Lab checks exhibits at Watch & Jewellery Fair Dubai Municipality: No temporary labour accommodations unless conditions met Sheikh Mohammed visits Global Environmental Youth Convention Prayer halls to be built in public parks Lootah calls DM leaders to apply performance index standards Statistics Centre of Dubai issues annual statistical year book Dubai parks to enliven DSF with fun and entertainment The Committee on Naming and Numbering of the Roads in Dubai hold meeting » more Dubai Municipality news

Famous Malayalam literary critic, poet and journalist M K Harikumar was in Dubai to spread the idea of his mission 'Ten million trees across the world.' He planted a few saplings near the Media City in coordination with the Public Parks and Horticulture Department of Dubai Municipality.

Dubai Municipality officials present at the simple ceremony said the civic body will give further boost to Harikumar’s idea of ten million saplings. Ahmed AbdulKarim, Director of Public Parks and Horticulture Department said the Municipality, which is in the process of turning 8% of the city area green as per the international norms, would like support any movement towards creating more green areas.

'We believe that Harikumar’s idea of ten million saplings will help create awareness among the local residents towards the necessity of planting more and more trees for the generations to come,' he said.

Harikumar said he has taken a plunge to this campaign for a childhood pledge, taking a break from the rigours of routine work to spearhead the challenge of reclaiming the world’s green cover.

'This is my first tree planting outside India where I have completed planting 5,000 trees in different states with the help of social organizations and NGOs,' he said.

When Harikumar was in college in Kerala, he recalls a fascination for trees and regaling in nature’s bounty. 'I would turn to the leaves for my bookmarks and this gave me immense thrill. Back home everyone shared the same love for nature and this in many ways helped us bond as a family. I guess it also contributed to my passion for writing,' he said.

A post graduate in Economics from Nirmala College Muvattupuzha, Kerala, Harikumar said it is his writings that have taken the centre stage and helped him move up the ladder to be the bureau chief of a leading Malayalam Daily, poet and writer with eight books to his credit. But today he is a worried man. The onslaught on the environment not only in his own state Kerala, the 'God’s own country' but across other states like Karnataka and worldwide torment him a great deal.

The journo turned environmentalist was in the city to kick-start a campaign of gigantic proportions spread across six continents besides seeking space to fulfill a unique venture.
Harikumar said his dream got off to the best possible start outside India.

'On my part as a global crusader, I will promote environmental conservation by creating awareness amongst students on the importance of planting trees as well as taking good care of them. This is a symbolic beginning,' he said.

Harikumar understands this will be a different beat all together. 'It is not going to be just a pledge. This is something I have always dreamed of as a child and am happy it is becoming a reality. The campaign is not just going to help, protect the environment but should spur others to contribute their might in safeguarding the environment,' he said.

Harikumar said to realize his goal, he is taking a break from his work and much of his writings will take a backseat. 'This phase of the agenda focuses on the planting of indigenous trees on public lands to enhance the impact of environmental conservation,' he said.

Interestingly, Harikumar is not banking on Government but a strong network of friends of the environment. 'I will cultivate through the years in across various cultures, cities and countries. A host of individuals and institutions have made a commitment to see this venture through. What I am seeking is the space to plant the trees, nothing more,' he said.

Speaking on the importance of such a measure, the soft-spoken environmental crusader shared his views on the global state of the environment. 'We are today witnessing a wanton destruction of green cover and this is not good for the present and future generations. We can rectify the mistakes that we have committed in the past by putting curbs on felling of trees and then make genuine attempts as a remedy through planting trees,' said Harikumar.

His modus operandi is simple. With ten million trees to be planted across six continents as the target, to begin he will first seek for land to plant the saplings. Once this is done, he will then acquire the saplings/trees and elicit a commitment from those involved to be the custodians of the trees once they are planted.

Places of worship, public spaces such as parks and educational establishments, schools, colleges etc. will be the most sought after avenues.

The venture commenced in Dubai will spread across the GCC states before taking-off worldwide. Initially, the focus is on indigenous trees to enhance the impact of environmental conservation. However there is no preferred species although fast growing trees suited for public spaces will take prominence.

According to Harikumar the campaign is another addition to the efforts being made to conserve bio-diversity, enhance natural beauty and prevent soil erosion. 'I believe every country must sustain life naturally - forest cover affects the availability of the rain, availability of underground water, soil fertility, clean air and the beauty of the landscape,' he said.

Posted by എം.കെ.ഹരികുമാര്‍ at 4:21 AM