KOZHIKODE: A 20-minute documentary on sacred groves is grabbing attention. Kavukal: Jaivavaividhyathinte Abhayakendrangal (Sacred Groves, the Abode of Biodiversity) produced by the birds' and nature clubs of GVHSS Cheruvannur bagged Silver Hornbill award at the Rain International Nature Film Fest held in Munnar this year.
The film deals with the environmental significance of groves rather than as a place of worship.
"We had visited 20 odd groves in the district, and it was an enriching experience. Many 'Sarppakavu' (abode of snakes) had been converted to concrete temples thereby destroying the environment connected with Kavu," says M. Swaralaya, the class 9 student who directed the film along with K.U. Nandana.
The school team came across groves as the treasure trove of rare trees, plants, medicinal plants, reptiles and streams.
"Many rare trees, Aanjili, Arayaanjili, Rudraksham, Njaaval and Marotti and medicinal plants Kaatuchetty, Vanamanjal, Sarppagandhi and Shavamnaari are found at groves. The young generation should be taught how groves keep alive water bodies," says A. Vishwapoornima, a teacher at the school.
Students T.S. Harikrishnan and C. Jishnu also played vital roles on the crew.
The jury comprising Kannada film director Girish Kasaravalli and Sri Lankan director Prasanna Vithanage selected the film from 50 entries of students.
Kozhikode Birds' club district coordinator K.C. Abdul Riyas gave away the award in the presence of Prof T. Sobheendran and others.
