Nadum Nattarivum

Kerala, known for its lush greenery and rich biodiversity, is facing a growing ecological concern—the displacement of native plants by exotic and invasive species. This shift not only disrupts the natural balance but also threatens the state’s cultural and ecological identity. Shri M.R. Hari of Crowd Foresting,  recent video sheds compelling light on this issue by reflecting on the statue of the great poet Kumaranasan in Thiruvananthapuram. While Kumaranasan celebrated Kerala’s native flora in his works, the poet’s own statue now stands surrounded by exotic palms instead of the indigenous plants integral to Kerala’s natural heritage. This powerful visual metaphor points to a larger pattern of ecological displacement happening across our landscapes. The problem of invasive species is significant in Kerala’s forests and urban areas alike. Studies have identified dozens of alien invasive species in the region, such as Acacia mearnsii and Chromolaena odorata, which aggressively coloniz...

Honoring Lives Through Nature Some people leave behind more than just memories—they leave an everlasting presence in our hearts. Though they may no longer walk among us, their love, wisdom, and kindness continue to shape our lives. AMARAM (അമരം)is an initiative that seeks to honor these souls in the most meaningful way possible—by planting trees in their memory. Even though we cannot see them with our eyes, we often forget the great trees that have stood tall, offering us shade. Those who spread their branches before us… Those who bore fruits for us… Those who rooted deep into our hearts and filled the air with their fragrance… Through AMARAM, we bring them back—not just as memories, but as living trees that continue to grow, breathe, and give back to the world. A Vision That Took Root in 2020 AMARAM was initiated on June 5, 2020, as a tribute to those who have touched our lives. Born out of a vision to create lasting memorials through nature, this initiative has since grown into a mov...

Incorporating conceptual opulence and inspired by the grandeur of Kailasa, Amarnath and Kedarnath, comes an awe-evoking brilliance of the Shiva sanctity and its humble submission, in Kerala. Satva Scapes, through its uniquely hand-crafted creative concept “OMKARANATHAN”, helps you arrive at a truth-seeking journey’s destination, at Perumkulam, also reputed as the first book village of Kerala aka Pustaka Gramam. Celebrating the convergence of art with devotion, Satva Scapes’ OMKARANATHAN, a majestic 15 feet tall impressive crown and torso of the Lord, helps you re-discover your inner self in complete resonance with the divine grace. This statue is installed in the vicinity of the footsteps, which folklore maintains, were imprinted, when Lord Kozhikottappan granted His holy vision to Velu Thampi Dalawa. Besides boasting of a naturally landscaped flowing water stream, the statue is resplendent with over a thousand Om Karam inscriptions on the hair locks of the Lord, reverently scripted by...

Perumkulam, widely known as Pusthakagramam (Book Village), offers a unique blend of literary, cultural, and natural experiences. Located on the historic Veluthampi Dalawa Road (Kottarakkara-Mannadi Road), just 5 km from Kottarakkara, this village in Kerala is a beacon of knowledge and heritage. The community’s love for books and its dedication to preserving cultural traditions make it a distinctive destination for travelers. Pusthakappura – India’s Largest Book Sculpture A visit to Pusthakagramam would be incomplete without seeing Pusthakappura, India’s largest book sculpture. This monumental work of art stands as a testament to the power of books and knowledge. The sculpture embodies the village’s identity as a place where literature thrives, attracting both locals and tourists passionate about reading and learning. The Pusthakappura’s intricate design features stacks of books, capturing the essence of Pusthakagramam’s mission to make knowledge accessible to all. Open Book Kiosks (Pus...

The Incredible Health Benefits of Butterfly Pea Flower (ശംഖുപുഷ്പം) In the world of natural remedies and wellness, few plants have garnered as much attention as the butterfly pea flower. Known for its striking blue color, this unique flower (Clitoria ternatea), called ശംഖുപുഷ്പം (Shankhupushpam) in Malayalam, has long been used in traditional Ayurvedic and Southeast Asian medicine. Whether sipped as a tea or applied in beauty products, its potent health benefits are drawing more interest across the globe. The Origins of Butterfly Pea Flower The butterfly pea flower is native to Southeast Asia, particularly countries like Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. For centuries, it has been cherished in these regions for its medicinal properties and vibrant blue color, often used in cooking and herbal remedies. Its use has been deeply integrated into the traditional knowledge of these cultures. From Southeast Asia, the butterfly pea plant spread to other tropical and subtropical regions, includ...

Get ready to embark on an extraordinary journey with   KOKO ! This exciting new project is set to redefine sustainable tourism and community connection in the heart of Kerala. While still a work in progress, KOKO promises to be a beacon of eco-friendly travel and cultural preservation. Connecting to My Village Nestled amidst lush greenery, my village in Kerala has always been a source of inspiration. The simplicity, resilience, and harmony with nature that define village life have shaped my vision for KOKO. This project aims to bring the charm and values of my village to the forefront of sustainable tourism. Pusthakagramam : Perumkulam in Kottarakkara Mannadi Road ( Dalawa Road) , known as "Pusthakagramam", holds the distinction of being Kerala's first and India's second book village. This unique initiative has fostered a love for reading and community engagement, further enriching the cultural fabric of our village. What to Expect from KOKO 1.  Eco-friendly Homestays...

Discover the Literary Haven of Kerala Nestled in the heart of Kerala, Pusthakagramam is a testament to the region's rich literary culture and commitment to community learning. This unique village, spearheaded by the Bappuji Smaraka Vayanasala library, is home to  14 charming book kiosks  known as Pusthakakkodu,  Five Reading Parks  and the magnificent Pusthakappura,  India's largest book sculpture . Pusthakakkodu: Open Book Kiosks for All   The true gems of Pusthakagramam are the Pusthakakkodu. These open book kiosks are strategically placed throughout the village, inviting everyone to indulge in the joy of reading. Operating on a simple yet profound principle, anyone can come, take a book, read, and return it. The most fascinating aspect of these kiosks is that they are not locked and no one is monitoring them. This trust-based system not only promotes literacy but also fosters a sense of community and shared knowledge. Each kiosk is thoughtfully desi...

What Chess Teaches Me About Decision-Making Did you know? Chess, one of the world’s most iconic strategy games, was born in India over 1,400 years ago. Known then as Chaturanga, it was a reflection of ancient Indian military formations — infantry, cavalry, elephants, and chariots — which evolved into today’s pawns, knights, bishops, and rooks. From Indian courts to global arenas, chess has remained a timeless duel of intellect and intuition — a game where every move matters. To me, chess is much more than a game. It’s a quiet teacher. A mirror. A guide. A school of decision-making played out on 64 black and white squares. Here’s how this ancient Indian invention continues to shape the way I navigate life: Assessing the Board Before I move, I survey the board — identifying threats, vulnerabilities, and opportunities. In life too, before any major decision, understanding the landscape is everything. Whether it’s a new venture, a relationship, or a creative leap, clarity starts wit...

<<The Evolution of Insight >> Maturity, age, and ideas form a fascinating triad in our journey through life. Each element influences the others, shaping our personal growth and creative expression. In this blog, we'll delve into their dynamic relationship and explore how they intersect. The Role of Age Age serves as a numerical marker of our time on Earth. As we accumulate experiences, encounter diverse perspectives, and deepen our understanding, wisdom emerges. It's crucial to recognize that wisdom isn't exclusive to the elderly; fresh insights often spring from young minds. The Impact of Maturity Maturity, an intangible quality, develops as we navigate life's challenges. It involves empathy, objectivity, and self-awareness. With maturity, we distill our ideas, prioritize effectively, and communicate with clarity. Critical thinking expands, allowing us to refine our creative concepts. The Power of Ideas Ideas are the lifeblood of progress. They can transfor...

check out video  Imagine a place where every page turn in a book echoes the rhythm of nature, where the whispers of the forest blend with the stories of old. This is the vision of KOKO, nestled in the heart of Perumkulam, Kerala's first book village (Pusthakagramam). Here, a butterfly flutters in, its wings painted with splashes of orange and black—a spontaneous mascot for this eco-adventure. Prakash Varma, the mind behind KOKO, dreams of a world where creativity blooms alongside nature's wonders. The butterfly's arrival seems to say, "Yes, this is the place!" It's a sign that here, life will thrive, even as we shape our dreams into reality. This snapshot, with the butterfly perched so trustingly on Prakash, is a snapshot of hope. It tells us that KOKO is on the right path—a path that respects the rustle of leaves and the buzz of bees as much as the buildings we raise. The butterfly isn't just a fleeting visitor; it's a key player in the KOKO story. It...

In the heart of every flourishing garden, a tiny yet bustling hub of activity thrives, often unnoticed by the casual observer. This hub is the insect hotel, a sanctuary crafted by eco-conscious gardeners to support the unsung heroes of our ecosystems. Let's delve into the world of these fascinating structures and discover how they not only benefit our gardens but also serve as a testament to sustainable living. What is an Insect Hotel? An insect hotel is a man-made structure designed to provide shelter for beneficial insects. It is constructed using a variety of natural materials that mimic the insects' habitats in the wild. These hotels are often filled with an assortment of organic materials such as straw, wood, bamboo, and pine cones, creating a mosaic of nooks and crannies that cater to different species. The Architectural Marvel of Insect Hotels Creating an insect hotel is akin to building a miniature ecological condominium. Each section serves a specific purpose and cater...

KOKO Pusthakagramam is a beacon of sustainability and intellectual growth, currently blossoming into a sanctuary where the whispers of nature and the wisdom of words coexist. The Pavetta indica stands as a proud emblem within our property, symbolizing our dedication to preserving the environment and fostering a culture of learning. Our guests are invited to explore and engage with the natural world, discovering the Pavetta's white blooms as highlights amidst our evolving landscape. These plants are not merely decorative; they are integral to our vision of creating a space where knowledge flourishes alongside flora and fauna. As KOKO takes shape, we are weaving together the threads of ecological mindfulness and educational enrichment. Our commitment to conservation is matched by our eagerness to share this journey with our guests. The story of each plant, including the medicinal and ecological marvels of the Pavetta indica, is interlaced with the narrative of our property's grow...

  Nature's Gift to KOKO: A Harmony of Life and Land in Perumkulam In the verdant heart of Kerala's first book village, Pusthakagramam, lies the village tourism project KOKO, a place where the whispers of nature and the wisdom of books converge. The recent discovery of two animals, a tortoise and a rabbit, naturally sculpted by the landscape itself, is a testament to the beauty and wonder that the natural world holds. The tortoise, with its solid shell and deliberate pace, symbolizes the enduring spirit of KOKO. It reflects the project's commitment to sustainability and the protection of nature. This creature, shaped by the very rocks of KOKO, serves as a guardian of the land, reminding us of the importance of a slow and steady approach to conservation. The rabbit, agile and alert, represents the dynamic energy of life that pulses through KOKO. Its presence on the right-hand rock is a playful nod from nature, an embodiment of the joy and vitality that visitors can experience...