In Haveri district, a board-painting artist named Fakkiresh Huralikoppi has been marking his son's birthday for the past seven years by planting trees. While forest department officials have faced criticism for failing to safeguard forests and for withdrawing funds without completing plantation work, Fakkiresh has taken a different path.
Planting Over 500 Saplings
In Najik Lakamapur village, he has planted more than 500 saplings and continues to nurture them until they are well established. His personal commitment reflects a dedication to environmental conservation and sustainability. Many of these saplings have now grown into trees.
Inspired by His Son's Birth
A central part of his initiative is linked to his son Poorna's birth on World Environment Day, June 5. Fakkiresh chooses not to celebrate by cutting a cake. Instead, he encourages his son to plant as many saplings as possible. He believes planting and caring for trees offers a practical example for others.
He began planting after noticing large unused spaces on a school campus while visiting his former school for yoga practice. He said that along with yoga, digging pits, watering plants and clearing litter could form part of a sustained effort, prompting him to begin his work there.
Species Planted
He has planted saplings within the school premises and along village roads. The species include teak, wild almond, jamun, neem and honne, with many now becoming sizeable trees.
“In 2016, I began planting saplings as an environmental enthusiast. On June 5, I was blessed with a baby boy. I see him as a gift from nature. So every year on June 5, instead of cutting a cake, I mark both Environment Day and my son’s birthday by making him plant saplings,” Fakkiresh said.
Villager Prakash said, “Fakkiresh does not stop at planting saplings. He waters them daily. To protect them from animals, he places thorny branches around them. He also supports them with stakes, ensures water is retained and clears nearby waste. People in Najikalakamapura fondly call him ‘environment lover’ Fakkiresh.”
