WHY HAS BHOJPUR’S BANYAN TREE BECOME A CENTRE OF ATTTRACTION

WHY HAS BHOJPUR’S BANYAN TREE BECOME A CENTRE OF ATTTRACTION

2-JUNE-ENG 7

RAJIV NAYAN AGRAWAL

ARA------------------------A colossal banyan tree, situated in the village of Semariya Ojha Patti within the Shahpur block of Bhojpur district, has recently become a focal point of public interest.

This historic tree stands as a unique testament to the villagers' faith, heritage, and love for nature. From a scientific perspective as well, this tree is considered exceptional.

This is because the aerial roots descending from its branches reach the ground and transform into new trunks, thereby ensuring its continuous expansion.

Spanning an area of ​​approximately 22,000 to 25,000 square feet, this banyan tree resembles a natural garden when viewed from a distance. Its most remarkable feature is the difficulty in locating its original, primary root.

The Village's Identity Resides in the Shade of This 250-Year-Old Banyan

Dozens of aerial roots, descending from the tree's sprawling branches, have penetrated the soil and transformed into new trunks. Many roots can still be seen dangling in the air, further enhancing the tree's grandeur.

According to the villagers, this banyan tree is approximately 250 years old. The village elders recount that while generations have come and gone, this tree continues to stand tall—with undiminished strength—as the pride of the village.

Due to its proximity to the shrine of Saint Dayapuri Baba, the tree has never been subjected to felling or pruning. Consequently, its size has continued to expand, and today, it has become synonymous with the village's identity.

The villagers regard this banyan tree not merely as a plant, but as a cherished part of their heritage. On religious occasions, prayers and rituals are performed here, and sacred threads (*Raksha Sutras*) are tied around the tree.

Semariya Ojha Patti's Colossal Banyan Tree: A Symbol of Love for Nature

During the scorching summer months, its dense canopy offers respite to the villagers. While children can often be seen playing amidst its roots, the elderly spend hours sitting in its shade, passing the time in quiet contemplation. Retired CRPF Commandant Premi Hiralal Ojha explains that this banyan tree stands as a symbol of the village's history and honor. It is believed that the tree has been present here since the very inception of the village.

According to Virendra Ojha, however, no one knows which specific root constitutes the primary, original root of the banyan tree. Furthermore, according to PACS President Chanchal Ojha, generations of villagers have grown up hearing the same account—that the tree has always appeared exactly as it does today.