#503 - The Spring of Life : How Moirangthem Loiya Saved a Forest

by Lavanya Karthik and illustrated by Canato Jimo

“The Spring of Life : How Moirangthem Loiya Saved a Forest” by Lavanya Karthik and illustrated by Canato Jimo. Published by Kalpavriksh. An incredible story exploring the inspirational work of Moirangthem Loiya Ngamba at Punshilok forest in Manipur.

The book tells the story of Moirangthem Loiya as well as the Punshilok forest which was revived thanks to his incessant effort. Loiya loved spending time outdoors amidst nature. He liked to camp and hike in the forests with his friends on the outskirts of Imphal where he lived. He was at peace when surrounded by nature. Loiya had to leave Imphal for a few years due to his studies.

When Loiya returned to Imphal, he found that the town had changed immensely. It was very noisy and too busy for his liking. The old landmarks of his childhood seemed to have disappeared. The forests had all been cleared for timber, roads, buildings and agriculture. The birdsong that he used to love so much was also gone. Streams and rivers were either being dammed or choked with garbage. Forest fires were destroying what was left of the once lush forests. What could Loiya do to save the forests? Was it even possible for him to take up such a mammoth task alone? Could he expect support of anyone in this endeavour? What challenges lay ahead of him on this difficult journey? Read the book to know what Loiya managed to achieve with his determination and perseverance to revive the sacred Punshilok forest which translates to “the Spring of Life”.

The book proved to be a heartwarming read for me as well as my nine year old. Loiya’s love for nature and his undaunted commitment to the mammoth task at hand are the highlights of his story. He took up an unusual decision and chose to do something that was close to his heart. His mother’s rock solid support must have motivated him to carry on and never look back. All of these have been portrayed in a lovely manner along with beautiful illustrations which bring the settings alive. Stories like these bring out hope that all is not lost and we can save our natural resources if we put in efforts. While we need to create awareness about the harm caused by ceaseless changes to natural landscapes in the name of progress and development, stories such as these show how we can try to revive what has been lost or destroyed if we persevere. The story also gave a glimpse into the ugly side of things that had occurred to cause the forests around Imphal to disappear within a couple of years that Loiya had been away. We could totally relate to how he must have felt when he could not hear birdsong anymore.

Recommended Age

The book is apt for children aged 6 and above.

Where to buy from?

The publishers Kalpavriksh here.