Author: Archana

Once a Physiotherapist now a Wordsmith. Field Botanist. Bonsai. Proud Indian. Fauji Wife. Doting Mother and Mother-in-law. Devoted Grandmother. Reluctant Cook. Happiest on a road less travelled. 60s are the new 40s ;-)
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Down but not out!

The Savitribai Phule Pune University (erstwhile University of Pune, popularly called only University) is home to a really really old Gorakh Chincha or Boabab (Adansonia digitata). It grows in the rear lawns and has some really massive infestation (probably white ants) that has created a huge hole in its main trunk. It was impressive despite this cavity and flowered quite freely.

Here is an image captured quite a while ago.

Pune trees, University, Gorakh chincha

As you can see the tree has bent down considerably as it is weakened on one side due to the infestation. However incessant heavy rain in the monsoon of 2014 caused it to bend down and collapse completely. Here is picture of a newspaper report about the same.

Pune trees
Report in a Pune daily about the fallen tree

I was quite saddened but really there is not much one can do at an individual level. (Does that sound like an excuse?) Anyway… I happened to visit the University recently and to my utter joy, the tree is still alive. I saw healthy shoots and sprouts at many branches though the tree is horizontal.

Pune trees, Boabab,
The Boabab has fresh new shoots!

There is always hope! 
Cheers!

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The Sun Rises

Sunrise at Panchgani tabletop

An overcast sky early morning at Pondicherry. The sun struggles to be seen

The sky lightens before sunrise as seen at Sinhagad, Pune

The sun rises somewhere near Washington  (this image has been captured by a relative)

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Illustrious Heritage (Wordless Wednesdays)

Education, Pune, heritage
Pune’s Deccan College has had illustrious personalities as its Principals.

William Wordsworth (Grandson of the famous poet) and E.A. Wodehouse (related to P G Wodehouse) are among the past Principals of this college that was first started in 1821.

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