Media Release

Mangaluru, Jul 3: Mangalore Bicycle Club has been celebrating Vanamahotsava since 2016, the year which marked the fifth year anniversary celebration of the club. In 2016, the club and its members had decided to celebrate Vanamahotsava every year with the onset of the monsoon an ideal time to plant trees. The first of this was done
in 2016 by planting 50 saplings at Prakash Offset premises, Baikampady. In 2017 the club conducted seed bombing on the Tannirbhavi stretch.

July 1 witnessed the third year of Vanamahotsava celebration by the club and as part of the club's seventh anniversary, they decided to visit seven households in the city to plant around ten saplings, thereby creating awareness on prevention of global warming and reducing pollution by planting more trees. Saplings which were picked for planting had medicinal properties, fruit bearing nature and also included those which produce high levels of oxygen. Choice of plant was given to the owners of households depending on the size and availability of area. Radhesh Bhat from Tapovan, Kinnigoli, who is an NITK graduate and a passionate environmentalist was appreciated for sponsoring the saplings from his organic farm.

Vanamahotsava celebration for this year commenced with around 20+ members of the club who assembled on July 1 at City Corporation, their usual starting point despite heavy rainfall. They pedalled around the city for around 30 kms covering seven different locations which they had identified for planting the saplings. Their first point was Kadri Mallikkatte where they planted Bilva Patra (Bell Tree) which is known for spreading positive vibes. From there, they proceeded to Chilimbi and planted Red Sandalwood used in herbal medicines and then on to Matadakani where they planted Averrhoa Bilimbi locally called Bimbuli used for skin related disorders and traditional cooking as a souring agent. Their next halt was K C Alwa's house, where three saplings which included Putranjiva were planted. Its leaves, fruits and seeds are all used for medicinal purpose. The second plant was almond known for its nutritional value and third was Jackfruit tree which requires no explanation as it is one of the most savoured fruits. Ramphal at BGS Institution was next planted. This fruit bearing plant is also known for its use in the treatment of incurable diseases like cancer. At Padavinangady Almond and Starfruit were planted. They are known for their antioxidant properties. The final halt was at IGP Bungalow, Maryhill, Helipad where a teak sapling was planted.

Thanks to Dr Pritham Sharma, consultant urologist at A J Hospital, Subraya Nayak, a retired banker, Lakshman Kamath, a merchant, Arun Chakravarthy (IGP), BGS Institution Mangalore, K C Alva, land developer, Joel G Fernandes, interior designer, who lent their place and assured to nurture the plants. They expressed interest in joining hands with the club toward this initiative and willingness to care for the saplings and spread awareness on this. Saplings were taken and area for planting was prepared in advance to ensure smooth flow of events.

As a club with many environment friendly members, they continue to educate and do their bit for the environment through green environment initiatives. Vanamahotsava celebration is a tradition the club continues to inspire and create awareness for the generations to come.