Reflections from Wayanad: A Glimpse into Life, Death, and the Tapestry of Existence

 We Bought A Huge Orange Together: The Camp to Tholpetty

At lunchtime I bought a huge orange—

The size of it made us all laugh.

I peeled it and shared it with Robert and Dave—

They got quarters and I had a half.

And that orange, it made me so happy,

As ordinary things often do

Just lately. The shopping. A walk in the park.

This is peace and contentment. It’s new.

The rest of the day was quite easy.

I did all the jobs on my list

And enjoyed them and had some time over.

I love you. I’m glad I exist.

-Wendy Cope, “The Orange”

As we retrospect and introspect on our week-long journey to Tholpetty Wildlife Reserve in Wayanad, Kerala, we are struck by the simplicity that enveloped the entire experience. What began as a seemingly straightforward camp turned into a profound exploration of life, death, happiness, and the interconnected threads that weave the intricate tapestry of existence.

The journey itself was poetic, with the sky resembling soft pink cotton candy as the train carried us to our destination. Nights were adorned with a myriad of stars, too numerous to count. The Kabini River's clear, cold streams caressed our feet, and the landscape was a canvas painted with various hues—lush green trees, golden sunsets, and flowers in shades of pink, yellow, white, and red. Nature's symphony played in the background with the morning chirps and the evening crickets.

Amidst impromptu conversations, crackling bonfires, and food that exuded homely comfort, the experience was simply wonderful. We entered the camp expecting to discover the aspects of life we had been missing in our daily hustle, and indeed, we were surprised. It made us ponder the essence of just being, of existing for the sake of it.

The camp prompted contemplation not only on sociological and environmental issues but, more significantly, on life and death. Conversations with a 63-year-old man, who lived alone following the recent death of his wife, brought forth a profound realization. His response to our inquiry about how he spends his time was a simple revelation – "We just sit." The man's content smile hinted at our inability to grasp the concept of doing nothing, of merely existing without a constant buzz.

This encounter sparked discussions on happiness—a theme that lingered throughout our time in Wayanad. When are we truly happy? Has modernity stolen the true essence of happiness from us? Is the old man, residing alone in this remote land, genuinely happy? Are the villagers, toiling against the invasive Senna spectabilis, as content as they claimed? These questions force us to reconsider our pursuits and question whether they bring genuine satisfaction.

Linked closely to the pursuit of happiness is the rarely pondered theme of death, an ever-present companion that surrounded us during the camp. Surprisingly, by the end, the thought of a tiger consuming us became a comfortable, even happy, notion—a testament to the transformative power of a few days away from the urban cacophony.

However, simplicity belied complexity. The seemingly straightforward experiences exposed the intricacies of existence, revealing issues we were oblivious to and encouraging us to connect dots we might have otherwise missed. The key takeaway was that everything is interconnected; our challenge is to observe closely and identify the interlinking threads of life's intricate tapestry.

To borrow from the metaphorical imagery of a shared orange, the camp in Wayanad was akin to purchasing a colossal orange together. We laughed as we shared its slices, finding joy in its ordinariness. It was easy, like dipping our feet in cold water or savoring a warm cup of black tea.

In essence, the Tholpetty Wildlife Reserve camp in Wayanad offered a one-of-a-kind glimpse into rural life, providing a unique opportunity for us to delve into issues such as invasive species, human-wildlife conflict, the role of NGOs, and more. It was an enriching journey that left an indelible mark on our perspectives, urging us to be better thinkers and appreciators of the intricacies that define our existence.

CREDITS : Akshika

Energizing Tikekarwadi: A Tale of Self-Reliance and Ambition

 Introduction

Tucked away from the spotlight, Tikekarwadi village stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of communities striving for progress despite facing a lack of government support. During our recent visit, we uncovered a narrative of resilience, ambition, and the unique practice of selecting leaders through the sound of claps.

Self-Reliance in Action

While the villagers assert that government aid has eluded them, Tikekarwadi showcases an impressive list of accomplishments. A functional biogas plant, RO water supply facilities, and solar power initiatives demonstrate our commitment to self-sufficiency. The discrepancy arises when comparing the villagers' narrative of limited support with the tangible projects that have transformed our village landscape.

Rising Stars: The Talented Children of Tikekarwadi

Amidst the village's self-reliance, the children emerge as beacons of promise. Despite studying in a lower grade, their enrollment in advanced courses like MSCIT showcases a hunger for knowledge. Notably, the children, especially the girls, master archery, adding a unique and empowering dimension to their talents. The children's confidence reflects not only their individual abilities but also the nurturing environment that Tikekarwadi provides.

Balancing Aspirations and Realities: The Biogas Plant Saga

The pride in Tikekarwadi's biogas plant, although evident, seems to be tinged with a touch of exaggeration. With the plant supplying gas to 35 homes for just two days, the village still relies on purchasing cylinders. This revelation underscores the challenges of translating aspirations into sustainable, widespread solutions.

Empowering Women: Breaking Barriers

While women hold positions of power, a hesitancy to lead persists. The cultural backdrop, where men traditionally assume leadership roles, presents a hurdle. Encouragement and support can empower women to overcome this barrier, fostering a more inclusive and dynamic community leadership. Notably, the women of Tikekarwadi actively contribute to the village's economy, earning Rs 300 - Rs 400 per day, showcasing their economic independence.

Towards a Sustainable Future

With a population of around 1500 people, Tikekarwadi, led by its Sarpanch and an educated engineer, is steering towards new projects. Solar energy, water purification, and other initiatives signal a proactive approach to garner government support. The village's model of decentralized energy production could serve as an inspiration for communities across India.

Conclusion: Lessons Learned and Paths Forward

Tikekarwadi is more than a village; it's a living example of resilience, resourcefulness, and community-driven progress. As we reflect on the experiences gained, it becomes evident that the smallest entities, like villages, hold the potential to revolutionize energy decentralization.

The journey of Tikekarwadi unveils the blueprint for a self-sustained community. With careful planning, dedication, and encouragement, this model can be replicated, offering a ray of hope for villages across India. The lessons learned provide insights into the gaps in government facilities and illuminate pathways for improvement.

In the heart of Tikekarwadi lies a story of collective determination, and as we tread the path of innovation, we beckon others to join hands in building a brighter, self-reliant future.