Royal City's green umbrella

Located by the side of Mysuru-T Narsipura Road in Chikkalli on the outskirts of Mysuru, is the Big Banyan Tree, popularly known as Dodda Alada Mara in the local language. The tree is ranked second in the State, next to only to the much more popular Big Banyan Tree at Ramohalli near Bengaluru. What makes Big Banyan Tree of Mysuru unique is its distinctly umbrella-shaped canopy.

From a distance, one can see its overall structure as a massive green umbrella unlike Ramohalli’s Big Banyan Tree. Tourists moving on the T Narsipura road get drawn to this green canopy and deviate from their route to enjoy the cool shade and beauty.

This tree has been witness to at least a hundred years of Mysuru history. Aptly tagged as a heritage tree, its right age is not known. But the family which owns it, proudly estimates that the tree is more than 400 years old. The eldest of the family, Madaiah, who is 90 now, recollects that his grandfather considered it to be devara mara(holy tree) and advised everybody to safeguard it. It is heartening to note that the descendents of the family have been safeguarding the tree through a number of generations.

Even in this period of real estate boom, the owners remain true to nature. Madaiah talks about how many offers he received regarding this prime parcel of roadside land (1 acre and 4 guntas). But he refused to bow down and wants to make the future generations aware of the importance of preserving natural beauty. Fortunately, the younger generation also seems to be sentimentally attached with this tree and unwilling to part with this piece of land.

Even at this age, Madaiah regularly visits this place to light the lamp and supervise the sanctity and safety of the tree. He warns tourists to remove their footwear while approaching the tree and never lets anyone climb the big beauty.

Doreswamy, grandson of Madaiah, says that this tree has inspired him to write poems. He has written devotional poems on Lord Mahadeshawara sitting beneath this tree. There is a small shrine beneath the tree, amidst the trunk and thick aerial roots. A philanthropist has even installed granite benches around the tree to facilitate the nature lovers to rest and enjoy the serenity.

The Big Banyan Tree is the favourite of many movie makers. Many movies have been shot right under this tree. Kids are brought here as a part of their summer camp rituals and families have their picnics under the big canopy. Foreigners, who come to Mysuru for learning yoga, find this place ideal for pranayama and meditation. They greatly appreciate the beauty of this place, Doreswamy says.

Currently, he is actively involved in keeping the area clean and supervising the
activities of the visitors.