Shyamal Jana of Contai—Banyan Tree Man on a Mission – GetBengal story

“Trees are the best monuments that a man can erect to his own memory. They speak his praises without flattery, and they are blessings to children yet unborn.” Lord Orrery

Shyamal Jana of Chhatradhara, Contai (Kanthi) in East Midnapore district, is on a mission to plant five thousand banyan trees globally to create a greener world for a better tomorrow. In this age of instant fame, he is neither a sensation nor a trending topic on social media. Rather, he is an average person, a one-man army, working quietly to fulfil his pledge made to his little daughter, her friends, and millions of yet unborn children globally.

It is no secret that trees are essential to our survival. Unfortunately, due to human needs and activities, we are rapidly losing our forests. Areas that were once teeming with greenery are now barren and devoid of life. If we continue at this rate, we risk losing all the trees on our planet. Trees are our primary source of oxygen, an element we cannot live without. Therefore, protecting trees is essential for both the ecosystem and human survival. As a professional educator, Jana follows the saying, "He who plants a tree, plants hope." For a brighter tomorrow, plant a tree now. Trees are the key to a healthy planet and add life to our environment.

‘Thakbo nako Boddho ghore brikkhoropon bishwajure Sara prithibi amar nijer bagan Protiti din hok Poribesh Dibos/ Simeeto sadhyer modhye seemaheen sadh/ ichchhe thakle ki upay hoy?” (I will not live indoors like a prisoner; I shall plant trees globally.) The whole world is my own garden. Let every day be Environment Day. He has already planted saplings in Contai (Kanthi), East Midnapore, his home district, and 23 other districts of West Bengal. By now, he has completed planting 1067 saplings not only in different states of the country but also in the neighbouring countries of Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh. His next target is to plant saplings in all the states and Union Territories (36) of India. After this, Jana’s magnum plan includes planting banyan saplings on all seven continents of the world.

But why is he so inclined to planting banyan trees? Ficus benghalensis, or Ficus indica, commonly known as the banyan, banyan fig, and Indian banyan, is a tree native to the Indian Subcontinent. The banyan tree is more than just a plant; it is a cultural icon. Banyan, the national tree of India, is also considered sacred. The Banyan tree is like the cathedrals of the natural world, often becoming the focal point for community gatherings and spiritual ceremonies.

The banyan tree is an unsung hero in the fight against climate change. Its extensive root system prevents soil erosion, and its canopy provides a habitat for countless species. This tree is a powerhouse when it comes to carbon absorption. It is like a mini-ecosystem, providing food and shelter to a variety of wildlife. This tree is a walking pharmacy. From its roots to its leaves, every part has some medicinal use. It is like nature’s first aid kit. The bark is used to treat diabetes; the leaves are used for skin ailments; and the sap is used as an antiseptic. Planting a banyan tree is like setting up a trust fund for Mother Earth. These trees can live for hundreds of years, providing benefits for generations to come. Imagine planting something today that your great-great-grandchildren could enjoy.

The tree is so grand, it feels like an entire world. This isn’t just a tree; it’s a sprawling, living ecosystem that can stretch across acres. The Banyan tree is a spectacle to behold. Its aerial roots grow down from the branches, forming secondary trunks that make the tree look like it is standing on stilts. Over time, this creates a labyrinth of woody limbs and leaves. It is like the tree is cloning itself, expanding its territory without even moving.

It was Jana’s conscious choice when he started planting banyan saplings. At first, he was disregarded by many, who felt it was all a gimmick or a publicity stunt. Others said he had "lost his marbles," which is why he saved money from his modest income to travel to far-off places to plant banyan saplings. For Jana, the going got really hard early on. However, it was his dogged perseverance that yielded results, and gradually people began to notice his hard work, his selfless devotion, his sincerity, and his commitment to fulfilling his target. He always emphasised planting a banyan tree as a community event that fosters social bonds and can even become a local landmark. It is like planting the seed for future gatherings, discussions, and maybe even festivals. It can serve as an outdoor classroom for children in villages and small towns to learn about nature and conservation.

As a result of Jana's effort, he received invitations to plant Banyan trees on campus from numerous government leaders, heads of educational institutions, hospital administrators, and local civic bodies. People began to grasp gradually just how big of an impact his audacious proposal would have and how much change it would bring about to ensure the safety and security of our small blue planet and its inhabitants in the future. A large number of youths offered to assist with his goal. Jana has consistently urged her other residents to participate in the initiative by planting banyan seedlings.

Ever since Jana started his work, it has been his practice to seek permission from individual plot owners or from government authorities before planting the saplings on the plot. Once a banyan tree takes root, it is pretty self-sufficient. It is like the introvert of the tree world; it does not ask for much but gives back plenty. This tree can withstand harsh conditions and requires minimal care. 

There is an immeasurable joy in planting a tree and watching it grow. It is a long-term commitment that is a living testament to one’s love for the environment. Jana aims to sensitise people on issues like global warming and droughts, the importance of water conservation, and earnestly requests every individual to plant at least one banyan tree today and make the world a better place to live. The banyan tree offers a plethora of benefits, both tangible and intangible. He insists that it is a gift that keeps on giving.