Bengalureans express their love for trees at the Neralu Tree Festival

by February 11, 2015 Environment
The city was witness to its second edition of Neralu, the urban tree festival on February 7th and 8th. Here's what Bengalurians had to say about their experience.

Padme Float at the mirror pool at NGMA

The first phase of Neralu, the three-day Urban Tree Festival, concluded at NGMA (National Gallery of Modern Art) Bengaluru, on Sunday Fenruary 8th. Citizens of all ages participated enthusiastically in tree walks, listened to talks by naturalists and artists, and appreciated the movies, performances and street plays.

At Neralu, children experienced the world of trees through animated storytelling sessions, tree journaling, and sketching workshops. The tree walk conducted for young adults from Samarthanam Trust for The Disabled emphasised the different ways in which trees can be perceived.

Other highlights of the Tree Festival included a riveting dance performance, Padme and Float by Anita Ratnam’s troupe. Artist Malavika Sarukkai also gave a talk followed by a performance.

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Dr S Subramanya, Professor of Entomology at University of Agricultural Sciences, Gandhi Krishi Vidya Kendra, who seeded the idea of NERALU and helped shape the festival, said, “Neralu is an amazing initiative. I would like to see it happening every year with an even greater spread of activities and experiences through the city.”

“Anywhere, a social movement can become stronger and successful only when it reaches the younger generation and the general public.  Bengaluru has number of varieties of trees. They are not just biological structures but have historical significance too. Neralu is doing a yeoman service in making Bengalurians realise the importance of preserving these trees for posterity,” said  Suresh Moona, Founder Director of AARAMBH.

“Like with great minds and huge old trees, the wisdom available for free in public festivals like Neralu is immense. So happy to be part of this festival. Thanks Neralu team!”, said Mala Kumar, Editor at Pratham Books.

Noted naturalist Gururaja said, “As a scientist, Neralu provided me a platform to interact with citizens. It was a great to connect with trees and people using the Android app. I look forward to educating citizens about the connection between trees and frogs next year.”

KG Kumar, Director, NGMA, said “The effort of Neralu to remember, honour and celebrate the trees of our city, bringing man and nature together, is commendable, and will go a long way in furthering harmonious co-existence. NGMA, Bengaluru is proud to collaborate with the citizens of Neralu, to celebrate this festival for the trees of the city.”

Visit www.neralu.in for more details.

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About Poornima Kannan

Poornima is an avid blogger with keen interest in urban wildlife.She is also a freelance communication consultant with special interest in organisations that work towards a social cause.
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