Autobiography of a Coconut
I am usually a difficult nut to crack and grow on tall coconut trees in the areas of Andhra Pradesh, Tamilnadu and Kerala.
I was born in coastal Kerala and grew on a coconut tree, standing on the edge of backwaters. One day during an evening breeze, I fell into the waters with a ‘thud’. I kept floating in the waters for few hours and was spotted by a boatman who ferried people to and fro. He picked me, carried me to his home and put me in a basket. There, I had friends but none were as big as I. When a few more coconuts were collected, he took us to the nearest coconut vendor. There I was mercilessly thrown to the ground. I missed the lovely breeze of the back waters and the calm surroundings. Here I was amidst the chatter and noise of vendors and hawkers. I was later dehusked and kept for sale. A woman came and picked me up, bought me to be offered at the Lord Ganesha temple nearby. In her tray, I was comfortable with flowers, camphor and sandal paste, ready to be offered.
In the temple I was thrown, broken near the main idol after the prayers. I was broken into two perfect halves — it was a little painful but seeing the happiness on the face of the woman, I felt satisfied. The women took one of my halves broke it into pieces and distributed among the children gathered there. They were very happy to eat my white, crisp & tasty part. I felt blessed that I could satisfy so many people and their little wishes.
