In April, the town of Palakkad in Kerala puts on a golden yellow show with the blooming Kani Konna trees, also known as Cassia fistula. These flowers hold a special significance for Malayalis and are an integral part of the Malayalam New Year celebration, Vishu. The radiant color of these flowers evokes joy and memories for many, similar to how Christmas pine trees do in cold countries.
The Cassia fistula trees are native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia and are loved not just by Malayalis but also by people in Sri Lanka, Laos, and Thailand. In Sri Lanka, it is the provincial flower in the North Central Province, while in Laos, the flowers are used as a symbol of luck and happiness during their new year celebrations. In Thailand, the tree is the national tree. In India, the trees are known as Amaltas in Delhi and are a source of relief during the scorching summer months.
The author reminisces about walking on Laburnum Road in Bombay, named after these trees, and reflects on the importance of planting more Cassia fistula trees in public spaces for people to enjoy the beauty of nature. The article concludes with a heartwarming moment in a village in Palakkad where the falling flowers from the Kani Konna tree are likened to a divine blessing. The author’s journey through Palakkad, Thrissur, and Kochi is marked by the beauty of the blooming trees, leaving a lasting impression of nature’s wonder.
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Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image of the presented article.
