More than Planting Trees….A Journey that Touched My Heart
More than Planting Trees…. A Journey that Touched My Heart
By Vidya Thorat Kale (“Viju”)
Living in Vile Parle, we are fortunate to be surrounded by educational institutions, cultural organisations and social groups that constantly inspire us to contribute to society. Throughout the year, several organisations from our suburb quietly undertake initiatives that make a meaningful difference to people’s lives.
One such experience came my way on 5 July 2026, and it left a lasting impression on my heart.
Like most Mumbaikars, I eagerly wait for the arrival of the monsoon. The rains make us want to escape into the lush green countryside, breathe fresh air and enjoy nature’s beauty.
So when I was invited to join a tree plantation drive at Murbicha Pada, a tribal village in Wada Taluka, I happily agreed.
However, there was one question constantly on my mind.
Why are we travelling all the way to a place already surrounded by forests just to plant trees?
I smiled at my own thought, believing this would simply be another plantation drive.
Little did I know that the day would teach me lessons that had nothing to do with trees alone.
The Journey Begins
The programme was organised by Keshav Srushti Gram Vikas Yojana, led by Mr. Digambar Kale and Mrs. Charulata Kale of Vile Parle, along with Aasan Yoga School.
Early in the morning, around seventy volunteers gathered at Utkarsh Mandal and boarded two buses filled with excitement.
The journey itself was memorable—songs, laughter, conversations, breakfast shared among strangers who soon became friends, and the familiar chant of “Ganpati Bappa Morya” echoing through the buses.
As we travelled, the organisers shared the story behind the initiative, and my perception slowly began to change.
This was not merely about planting saplings.
More Than a Plantation Drive
The organisation has adopted Murbicha Pada and has been working consistently for the village’s overall development.
Along with tree plantation, they:
Support education.
Organise yoga sessions.
Distribute educational material to students.
Donate musical instruments for cultural activities.
Encourage holistic rural development.
Their vision is not limited to one-day events.
It is about building relationships that last for years.
That was the moment I realised we were not going to plant trees.
We were going to nurture hope.
A Warm Welcome
The warmth that welcomed us in the village is something I will never forget.
The villagers greeted every volunteer with traditional aarti, turmeric, vermilion and warm smiles that instantly made us feel like members of their own family.
There was a simplicity in their hospitality that no luxury could ever replace.
Watching children receive educational kits with sparkling eyes, seeing the villagers happily accept a harmonium for their bhajans, and working together to plant saplings with local residents made me realise that every small effort has the power to create lasting change.
Growing More Than Trees
Planting the saplings was, of course, meaningful.
But what touched me even more was learning how much importance the organisation gives to caring for every tree after it is planted.
Growing a tree requires commitment, just as building a community does.
The delicious homemade lunch lovingly prepared by the villagers reflected their gratitude far more than words ever could.
The food was simple, but it carried a richness that only affection can add.
A Lesson for Life
On our way back to Mumbai, I found myself quietly reflecting on the day.
In the morning, I had thought I was participating in a tree plantation drive.
By evening, I realised I had witnessed something much bigger.
I had seen how a group of dedicated people from Vile Parle had built a beautiful bridge between an urban community and a rural village.
They were not just planting trees; they were planting trust, friendship, opportunity and hope.
The Spirit of Vile Parle
It made me feel proud that our suburb is home to so many individuals and organisations who work selflessly for causes beyond city limits.
While many of us know Vile Parle for its schools, businesses and cultural heritage, there is another side that often goes unnoticed—the countless volunteers and institutions that quietly devote their time, resources and energy to serving society.
A Journey That Stays Forever
That day, I planted a few saplings in Murbicha Pada.
But unknowingly, something much more precious took root within me—a deeper understanding of humanity and a stronger desire to contribute, however little I can.
Some journeys end when you return home.
Others stay with you forever.
This was one of them.
