Aurangabad, Oct 24:
There is a long-standing tradition of offering the apta leaves (Bauhinia racemosa) as gold on Dussehra. But now the number of apta trees has come down drastically and there is a need to save these trees.
The apta tree has no fragrance and does not bear fruit. Therefore, there are very few people who plant apple trees in their yard. As a result, the number of apta trees has decreased. Apta trees are found outside the village. The sellers bring in large quantities of apta leaves and branches to sell on Dussehra. However, on the next day large quantity of dried apta leaves can be found thrown in the garbage. Therefore, offering apta leaves on Dussehra is in a way of destroying the environment. This tree is similar to Kanchan tree (Bauhinia variegata). Therefore, people are often confused in distinguishing between Apta and Kanchan trees. Hence the leaves of Kanchan are also plucked at the time of Dussehra. The leaves of Apta are connected to each other while the leaves of Kanchan are separated from each other. Due to not recognizing this difference, Kanchan tree is also severely damaged.
Apta is important for the environment
Botanist Dr Satish Patil said "The ability to absorb carbon dioxide emitted from vehicles and animals as well as atmospheric dust is high in Apta and Kanchan trees. Apart from this, the tree retains the water in the soil perfectly. Due to these properties, Apta is very important for the environment. The number of apta trees in Aurangabad city is already low. Therefore, instead of giving leaves on Dussehra, one leaf should be kept as devotion to God and the environment should be protected."