Bajali Village Marks 213-Year-Old Tree’s Birthday with 20kg Cake on World Environment Day

In a remarkable tribute to nature and heritage, the villagers of Jalikhata in Assam’s Bajali district celebrated the 213th birthday of a historic and colossal tree—believed to be Asia’s second-largest—on the occasion of World Environment Day. The celebration was marked by the cutting of a 20kg cake, drawing participation from Cabinet Minister Ranjeet Kumar Dass, environmentalists, students, local organizations, and hundreds of enthusiastic villagers.

The awe-inspiring tree, standing tall for over two centuries, is not only a botanical wonder but also a symbol of environmental conservation and community identity. Revered for its ecological and cultural significance, the tree has long been a part of Jalikhata’s heritage.

“This tree is not just a plant, it’s a part of our identity. For generations, it has given us shade, shelter, and a message — to live in harmony with nature,” said one of the villagers during the celebration.

The event featured cultural performances, environmental awareness speeches, and a strong call for action to combat deforestation and climate change. In his address, Minister Ranjeet Kumar Dass praised the villagers’ initiative:

“This is a shining example of how we can connect our traditions with the cause of environmental protection. The way Jalikhata has honoured this tree is truly inspirational.”

Organizers said the aim was not only to honour the tree’s longevity but also to raise awareness about the importance of preserving forests and protecting ancient natural treasures that are rapidly vanishing due to human activities.

Under the sprawling canopy of the 213-year-old giant, the community pledged to nurture their green legacy and called on others across Assam and the nation to join in preserving nature’s marvels.

This heartfelt celebration stood as a living testament to the power of grassroots environmentalism and the deep-rooted bond between communities and their natural surroundings.