Prabhakar Singh Chib
Summer has always brought with it a basket of nostalgia – of long holidays, scorching afternoons, and the irresistible call of nature. One of the sweetest memories etched in our childhood was the wait for Jamun trees to bloom with their deep purple, juicy fruits. As the sun blazed overhead and schools shut for summer vacations, we eagerly looked forward to those special days when Jamun trees would be laden with fruit.
Armed with nothing but a polythene bag and sheer excitement, we would rush out with friends, often barefoot, to locate the best Jamun trees in the neighbourhood or the village. Climbing up the tall branches and carefully balancing ourselves, we would pluck the ripened and juicy fruits one by one until the polythene bag gets full. Sometimes we would shake the branches and wait as the fruit rained down, staining the ground and our hands purple. The thrill of that adventure, the sweet and tangy taste of Jamun fresh from the tree, and the joy of sharing it with family at home – those were the moments that defined our summer.
But times have changed.
The other day, I was walking through the fields and came across the same Jamun tree, now full of ripened fruit, stood silent in the golden sun. The ground beneath it was littered with Jamuns, falling one by one, perished and forgotten. Not a soul was around to gather them. No eager children, no echoing laughter, no one to taste the treasure nature had so generously offered.
It struck me how far we’ve drifted. Today, we are more likely to be glued to our screens than to climb a tree. Our lives are now confined to air-conditioned rooms, scrolling endlessly while the real world – the world of smells, tastes, and touch – passes us by. That simple joy of gathering Jamun and of sharing that moment with others, is slowly being lost.
Jamun is more than just a sweet childhood memory – it’s a powerhouse of health.
Health benefits of Jamun:-
Regulates Blood Sugar: Jamun is known for its low glycemic index and is often recommended for diabetics. The seeds, in particular, help control blood sugar levels.
Boosts Immunity: Rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants, Jamun helps strengthen the immune system and protect the body from infections.
Improves Digestion: The fiber content aids in digestion and helps relieve problems like bloating and constipation.
Good for Skin and Teeth: Jamun has antibacterial properties that promote oral health and clear, glowing skin.
Supports Heart Health: With potassium and antioxidants, Jamun helps in regulating blood pressure and improving heart function.
Let us not allow these beautiful gifts of nature to go to waste – neither the fruits nor the memories. Maybe it’s time to step outside, feel the sun again, and pluck a little joy from a Jamun tree.
Follow our WhatsApp channel
