Just as we celebrate the birthdays of aging grandparents, we are not particularly cognizant of full-grown native trees in the neighbourhood, even the ones which have been around for centuries. Conservationist Roopali Parkhe-Deshingkar, 45, appeals for a collective healthy interest in indigenous trees which not just bear fruits and flowers, but also have a bearing on our social-emotional well-being; trees flourish in native literature and popular art; they conjure up rich imagery in local dialects. In her newly-released Marathi book Shatayushi (which translates to Centenarian, published by Saptahik Vivek, R175, 112 pages), Deshingkar celebrates 11 native (apart from two of African descent but adapted) long-living tree varieties which have blessed the Indian sub-continent with abundant gifts — from dermatological cures to firewood to flower beds to condiments to bio diesel.

Shatayushi is a picturesque catalogue brought to life by nature photographer Dr Amita Kulkarni's breathtaking high resolution photos. It aids Deshingkar's environmental awareness efforts which stem from her personal interest in the wilderness and adventure sports. The Dombivali-born has been a national runner-athlete. In one of her mountaineering expeditions, around 25 years ago, she met noted Chipko movement leader Sundarlal Bahuguna and she decided to dedicate her energies to eco-friendly initiatives.